POLYANTHUS 'GOLD LACE'

Polyanthus 'Gold Lace' 

Polyanthus 'Gold Lace' is a gorgeous ornamental perennial which has a history of cultivation dating back to the mid 1600's. English plant breeders took this cultivar to their hearts and after centuries of careful selection they have given us what we have today.

Strangely Polyanthus 'Gold Lace' has had a habit of falling in and out of fashion with growers but was particularly popular with Victorian gardeners. In fact the Victorians held Polyanthum 'Gold Lace' cultivars in such high regard that they used to display them on stages draped with black fabric and place frames around them to view them without distraction!

Polyanthus 'Gold Lace' 

Unfortunately the years of continuous hybridization in search for perfect blooms has caused Polyanthus 'Gold Lace' to lose its hardy ruggedness. So while there are still easy to grow from seed they tend to be treated as annuals, particularly in colder northern European climates.

The flower of the Polyanthus 'Gold Lace' is similar to that of Primula auricula cultivars in that it is formed by a single petal only. However being divided at the edge, it appears for all intents and purposes to be five or six petals. The flowers will vary in colours from plant to plant from red, through to brown and sometimes so dark they appear almost black! There is a tendency for the darker forms to produce a lacing of silver rather than gold. These are more correctly known as Silver Lace.

Growing to a height and spread of approximately 20 cm Polyanthus primula 'Gold Lace' is noted for its has unusual golden-eyed flowers with rich mahogany-crimson petals and gold laced edges. It has ovate mid-green leaves, which are occasionally seen with a reddish tint.

Polyanthus 'Gold Lace will perform best in a moist, slightly acid soil in partial shade. However they can tolerate a position of full sun if the soil is kept moist.

Be aware that polyanthus leaves are a particular favourite if both slugs and snail and so preventative measures will need to be put in place to maintain top condition.

For related articles click onto the following links:
OLD ENGLISH PLANTS - Polyanthus ‘Gold Lace’
POLYANTHUS 'GOLD LACE'
THE ORCHID PRIMULA - Primula vialii