Meaning and history
Primula is a feminine botanical name from the Latin genus name for primroses. Primula is a diminutive of primus, “first,” referring to flowers that appear early in spring; the English word primrose similarly developed from a phrase meaning “first rose.” The name therefore carries a direct floral and seasonal association. A notable bearer was Primula “Primmie” Rollo, the first wife of actor David Niven. Primula is also the scientific genus containing primroses, cowslips, and related flowers.