A perennial on a short rhizome with dense fibrous roots and a rosette of broadly ovate, rough-textured leaves. Flower stems rise above the basal leaves, 15-20 cm (6-8 in), and are topped by terminal umbels of fragrant, golden-yellow flowers, with tubular calyces.
History and traditions
Cowslips were sometimes known as “key flowers”, suggested by the shape of the flower clusters, which look like a little bunch of keys. In Norse mythology they were dedicated to Freya, giving access to her palace, but in the Christian era became “St Peter’s Keys” or the “Keys to Heaven”. The generic name, Primal, comes from primus, first, in recognition that they are among the earliest flowers of spring. At one time, when they were plentiful, they were gathered in vast quantities to make spring tonics and the gently soporific, pale-yellow cowslip wine. Many medicinal uses were assigned to the flowers and distilled cowslip water was said to be good for the memory. The cosmetic applications were mentioned reprovingly by William Turner: “Some women we find, sprinkle ye flours of cowslip with white wine and after still it and wash their faces with that water to drive wrinkles away and to make them fare in the eyes of the world rather than in the eyes of God, Whom they are not afraid to offend” (The New Herball, 1551).
Habitat/distribution
Native to Europe and parts of Asia introduced and sometimes naturalized elsewhere, found in meadows and pasture lands. A once common plant, it is now rare in the wild and a protected species in many European countries.
Growth
Prefers deep, humus-rich, moist soil and partial shade. Propagated by seed sown in late summer in containers, left outside through the winter as a period of stratification, when they are exposed to frost, is necessary for germination. Easily propagated by division in autumn.
Parts used
Flowers fresh (but must not be picked from the wild, as they are quite rare).
Uses
Medicinal
Cowslips have sedative, expectorant properties and contain salicylates (as in aspirin). They are taken as a tea for insomnia, anxiety, respiratory tract infections and rheumatic disorders.
Culinary
Flowers may be added to salads.
