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Mistassini Primrose

Primula mistassinica

Last reviewed: June 2026

Mistassini Primrose (Primula mistassinica)
Photo: J M from Madison, WI, USA / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Light

part shade

Water

medium

Size

4"–8" H × 4"–8" W

Bloom

Apr, May, Jun

Native to

IA, IL, ME, MI and 5 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Mistassini primrose is a delicate native wildflower that forms small, neat clumps of rosette leaves. It produces charming pink to lavender flowers with yellow centers in spring and early summer, creating a sweet cottage garden appearance.

In an HOA neighborhood

Mistassini Primrose takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Very small and can appear insignificant
  • May be mistaken for weeds
  • Foliage dies back after blooming season

Wildlife value

This primrose supports early-season pollinators including native bees and beetles when few other flowers are available. Its spring blooms provide important nectar during the critical early pollinator season.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Does Mistassini Primrose fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.