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Bird's-Eye Primrose, a Rare, Small Treasure

Spring 2003 Newsletter

For a few weeks each year, a small plant blooms on the cliffs at the Apple River Canyon State Park.

This plant goes unnoticed by most visitors to the park, as it needs to be viewed from across the waters of the Apple River. Binoculars help bring the little blossoms into focus, and a spotting scope is even better.

Primula mistassinica has several common names: bird’s-eye primrose is one, dwarf Canadian primrose another. This northern wildflower is normally found growing on the Alaska tundra, in the chilly regions of Canada, and around the cold Great Lakes.

The cluster of plants at the Apple River Canyon State Park is the southernmost area in which this primrose grows. Its flower has five heart-shaped lavender-pink blossoms that surround a round yellow dot called the bird’s eye. The small blossoms are at the tip of a slender stalk that grows from a rosette of green leaves.

The vertical limestone cliffs at the Apple River State Park provide a viable habitat for the north-loving plant. The constant seeping of water keeps the roots of the primrose cool during the summer; in winter, it forms an ice covering that protects the plant’s roots.

The bird’s-eye primrose flowers in April, and its bloom cycle lasts about six weeks. The largest concentration of plants is on the cliffs on the west side of the park. Cross the bridge leading west out of the park and enter the parking lot. Then scan the cliffs for a glimpse of this rare, small treasure.