A common flower in England (Primula veris) having yellow blossoms and appearing in early spring. It is often cultivated in the United States.

In the United States, the marsh marigold (Caltha palustris), appearing in wet places in early spring and often used as a pot herb. It is nearer to a buttercup than to a true cowslip. See Illust. of Marsh marigold.

A yellow flower associated in Shakespeare usually with fairies or children

Cowslip is a character in Watership Down. He is a rabbit and a member of Cowslip Warren. He leads and welcomes Hazel's band of rabbits to Cowslip Warren.