Wild flower and member of the Primrose family. Its name derives from "cowpat",(Old English "cuslyppe") from where Cowslips would spring up when they were common in the wild. Also known as Paigle, Key Flower, Fairy Cups and Mayflower. This hardy perennial grows to a height of 12 ins (30 cm), liking a well-drained and sunny aspect. Pretty clusters of small primrose-like yellow flowers on stalks during April and May.According to legend, St Peter dropped the keys to Heaven and where they landed Cowslips grew (the flowers were thought to resemble a set of keys).
It has been used since ancient times to make wine, jam, tea and ointment. Indeed, Cowslip wine, made from the "peeps" (yellow petal rings) was thought to be a good sedative). Its natural habitat is in meadows and woodland, with a particular preference for chalky soil. It has also been used as a sedative. The whole herb/roots has also been used in the treatment of coughs and bronchitis. Cowslips have also been used for hundreds of years to treat spasms, cramps, rheumatic pain and paralysis - used to be called Palsywort for this reason. Leaves can also be used for healing wounds. Both the flowers and leaves often used to be eaten - young Cowslip leaves were eaten in salads or mixed with other herbs to stuff meat. Flowers can be eaten to strengthen the brain. In the 18th century, powdered roots boiled in ale were used for treating giddiness and nervous ailments. Cowslips used to be popular in Elizabethan knot gardens.
Cowslips are believed to be the favourite flower of nightingales, who were said to only frequent places where Cowslips grew. Frightened fairies hide in the flowers. Sprinkle your threshold with Cowslip flowers when you want to be left alone. Carry Cowslip flowers for good luck. If a woman washes her face in milk which has been infused with Cowslips, then her beloved will be drawn closer to her. The plant has the ability to split rocks containing treasure and can help you find hidden fairy gold. The smell of Cowslips was believed to calm nerves and alleviate amnesia. Cowslips planted upside down on Good Friday turn into Primroses! If fed on bull's blood they turn red.
In Norse mythology the plant was dedicated to Odin's wife, Frega, the goddess who held the keys to happiness and sexual love.
Rare in the wild, but used to be common in meadows. The plant conservation charity, Plantlife, after Britain's first Cowslip census, found that less than half of all Cowslips are found in their traditional meadow habitats and are found instead by roadside verges, such as that found at Braceborough in Lincolnshire.
Flowers April to May. Dislikes acid soil. Plant out September or October preferably, but can also be planted in spring in dry or moist soil, sun or partial shade - although it does need good light in order to flower.
Food plant of the Duke of Burgundy Fritillary butterfly, Plain Clary and Northern Rustic moths.
If planting Cowslips in a meadow, don't cut the grass until after the plant has set its seed in late July.
CAUTION - DO NOT TAKE IF PREGNANT OR SENSITIVE TO ASPIRIN
*This sheet is provided for information only and is in no way a prescription for use. Please seek the advice of a qualified herbalist before using*