Blooming first in the early spring, the primrose is a lovely flower that can be found in shades like yellow, blue, white, pink, and purple. What do all primrose flowers have in common? A delicate, yellow-tinged center that looks not unlike an eye.
For all the beauty of this plant, though, it also has some deep symbolism. If you’re planning on giving someone a primrose flower, read this article first – it’s sure to open your eyes.
What is the Primrose Flower Meaning?
The word “primrose” comes from the Latin word, “primus.” This word means “first,” which makes sense if you consider that the primrose flower typically is the first flower to bloom in the early spring. Primroses are part of the Primula genus.
Because of this etymology, primrose flowers are often seen as representations of youth and everlasting existence.
What Do Primrose Flowers Symbolize?
In addition to the connection of this flower to youth and longevity, it has many other meanings, too. Usually, primrose flowers are seen as representations of young love and of feeling as though you can’t live without your lover.
Primrose flowers are often viewed as holistic symbols of femininity, too. They are also one of the February birth month flowers. The petals on the blossoms can stand for all of the various stages of life, including birth, life itself, consummation, and of course, death.
These lovely flowers can stand for neglected merit, inconstancy, and even bashfulness, but usually, they are given to show someone that you can’t live without them.
What Does a White Primrose Mean?
White primrose flowers are usually given to symbolize sadness and mourning. It can also be used to symbolize evil spirits.
What Does a Red Primrose Symbolize?
Red primrose flowers are usually given to others to symbolize passion, as is the case with many common red flowers.
What Does a Yellow Primrose Flower Symbolize?
The yellow primrose is a beautiful flower with deep symbolism as well. It was viewed as a symbol of good luck and health in the Victorian Era and Middle Ages, but is now viewed as a symbol of friendship and good will.
It’s the ideal gift to give to a close friend or even lover who appreciates these bright colors of spring.
What is the Cultural Significance of a Primrose?
The primrose flower is a bloom with plenty of cultural connotations and deep cultural significance.
Primrose in Norse Mythology
In Norse folklore, Freya is the goddess of love and the primrose is her sacred flower. When ceremonies and rituals were held to honor her, petals of these flowers were displayed on her altars to honor the Norse goddess Freya and her power.
Superstitions About Primrose Flowers
There are some superstitions around this flower, too. The English believe that, if you bring these blossoms home, you need to do so in groups of 13. Any more or any less can lead to bad luck.
Primrose Flower Medicinal Benefits
However, the primrose has some medicinal benefits. It is believed to help cure symptoms like migraine, headaches, cough, congestion, and more. Some primrose varieties, Primula vulgaris, are eaten as a delicacy or used as edible decorations.
Additional Cultural Significance
In years past, particularly in England, primrose flowers (also referred to as cowslip flowers or Primula veris) were called “Key Flowers” because they looked like hanging bundles of keys. They were once viewed as a “fairy realm” providing access to another dimension.
The English primrose was even referenced in the famous “Midsummer Night’s Dream” as well!
What is the Symbolism of a Primrose Tattoo?
Get a primrose tattoo, and you’ll have chosen to ink yourself with quite a unique symbol. This flower is usually meant to symbolize that you can’t live without someone or something, and can be inked in a wide array of pale and brighter shades.
When Should You Give Someone a Primrose?
There are many varieties of primrose flowers that are wonderful blooms when given among lovers. Giving your beloved a primrose flower will show him or her that you cannot live with them. They also represent young love. Fortunately, primroses thrive in both pots and in garden beds making them easy to care for gifts.
Primrose flower arrangements are perfect for weddings and other events. These flowers bloom early in the year, so they’re good options for events in early spring.
Fun fact: Did you know that primrose is also one of birth month flowers for February?
See more: What to plant with primrose
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