Prima Belarina® Carnival Primrose

Light Needs

Partial Shade to Partial Sun

(3 - 6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

6-8 Inches

Mature Spread

6-8 Inches

Growing Zones

4 to 8

Prima Belarina® Carnival Primrose (Primula vulgaris ‘Kerbelcarn’) brings layered color to the earliest days of spring. Fully double blooms measure an impressive 2–2½ inches across, opening rich golden yellow with coral-red highlights and softly lighter petal edges. Each flower resembles a miniature rose, held just above a tight cushion of textured green foliage. Plants remain compact at 5–8 inches tall and 10–12 inches wide, making them easy to place at the front of shaded borders. We like using this variety in small drifts near seating areas, where the depth of color and light fragrance can be appreciated at close range.

Bred as part of the Prima Belarina® series, this selection improves on the original Belarina® line with larger flowers and strong landscape performance. Sterile blooms extend the display well into mid-spring in cool conditions. The foliage stays neat and semi-evergreen in mild winters. Hardy in USDA zones 4–8, it performs best in moist, cool weather with protection from intense afternoon sun. Use it in woodland gardens, under deciduous shrubs, along pond or bog edges, or in spring containers where its warm tones brighten shaded spaces.

Prima Belarina® Carnival Primrose Care

Plant in part shade to full shade. Morning sun is acceptable in northern regions, but afternoon shade helps preserve flower color and longevity. Soil should be fertile, humus-rich, and evenly moist yet well drained, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Incorporate compost before planting to improve structure and moisture retention. Keep soil consistently damp during active growth, as shallow roots do not tolerate drying out. A light application of balanced fertilizer in early spring supports bloom, but heavy feeding is unnecessary. In hot summers, plants may enter dormancy if moisture declines.

Remove spent flower stems after flowering to maintain a clean appearance. Clumps can be divided every two to three years in late spring or early fall. In colder climates, apply a light mulch after the ground freezes to prevent frost heaving and protect the crown.

Prima Belarina® Carnival Primrose Spacing

Space plants 10–12 inches apart in borders so each mound can fill out fully without crowding. For containers, choose a pot at least 12 inches wide with good drainage and a moisture-retentive planting mix. Combine with companions that prefer filtered light and steady soil moisture, such as lungwort or hosta for contrasting foliage, or goatsbeard for soft height in the background. 

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