← Back to results

Mosquito Bills

Primula hendersonii

perennial herb View on Calscape

Care

Sun

part shade

Soil

Needs good drainage.

Size

0–1ft tall

Bloom

Jan-Dec

Foliage

Deciduous

Container

Friendly

Flowers

Prized

Native Range

Alpine and subalpine meadows of the High Sierra Nevada from Inyo County to Modoc County, 7000-11000 ft elevation.

Care Guide

Planting

Plant Mosquito Bills in partial to deep shade in a location with excellent drainage - this is non-negotiable, as poor drainage will rot the roots. The best time to plant is in fall or early winter, before the rainy season begins. Space plants about 12 inches apart to allow room for their basal leaf clumps to spread. This Bay Area native thrives in open woodland conditions, so avoid dense shade and ensure water can drain away quickly, especially if your soil tends toward clay.

After Planting

Water regularly during the growing season (fall through spring) while the plant is actively leafing and flowering, then taper off as temperatures warm in late spring. Expect the plant to die back completely to the ground by early summer once rains cease - this is normal and not a sign of failure; simply leave the dormant crown undisturbed. In year one, your main job is establishing good drainage and resisting the urge to overwater during the dry months. The #1 mistake is watering through summer dormancy, which can cause the underground crown to rot.

Visit Calscape for more information about Mosquito Bills