The Primrose belongs and gives its name to the natural order Primulacea; and in the Linnæan system is placed in the class Pentandria, and order Monogynia. From each root rises numerous buds, each growing on a single scape, and opening their petals in succession. It is believed to be one of the parents of the Polyanthus. The Primrose itself becomes double, and assumes an infinite variety of form and colour when removed from a state of nature, and cultivated in different kinds of soil. Boys are very fond of carrying the roots home, and setting them in their little toy-gardens. Clare mentions that he was in the habit of doing so : "In April's time, I spoilt the daisy's earliest prime; |