Shooting star is one of the most desirable perennials to grow in a shady spot making a large clump of slender leaves that are topped with 30cm stems holding achingly beautiful pink flowers with swept back petals between march and april the flowers even pack a fruity perfume that will infuse the air on a still warm day closely related to bedding primulas this a choice plant for growing in light or even full shade as long as the soil is fairly moist but not soaking wet try planting it