I have no personal experience, yet, but I have invested in some primula seed
this year and we'll see how it goes. They are more foliage than flower, but
the colors are bright and they are a perennial.

I'm with you on the annual vs. perennial thing, but for me it's more a time
issue than a money issue. And I love seeing them come back each year- like
an old friend!

Cheers-
Erin