Plant Description

Primula hendersonii

Henderson’s Shooting Star has distinctive, bright pink or purple flowers that appear to be “inside out.” Other common names include Mosquito Bill or Sailor Cap.

A close up of several bright pink Henderson's Shooting Star blooms on a brown background.

A Henderson's Shooting Star in bloom.

PLANT CHARACTERISTICS

Characteristic Plant Information
Height Up to 2 ft
Growth Rate Moderate
Life Cycle Perennial
Moisture Use Moderate
Drought Tolerance High
Deer Browse No
Wildlife Value Great for insect pollinators, other beneficial insects, and other birds and mammals
Hardiness USDA Zones 5-7
Bloom Time March-June
Bloom Color Pink, white, or purple
Habitat Type Forest edges

SCIENTIFIC CLASSIFICATION

Classification Scientific Name
Kingdom Plantae
Clade Angiosperms
Clade Eudicots
Order Asterids
Family Primulaceae
Genus Primula
Species P. hendersonii

Planting information

Sun

Full sun to partial shade

Soil

Prefers well-drained soil rich in organic matter

Special Uses

Great for many varieties of small wildlife such as insects, small mammals, and birds

Ease of Care

Easy

PLANT IMAGES