Bear's ear auricula Primula auricula 'Blue Velvet' (Au/b)

Water

For the Bear's ear, known as Primula auricula 'Blue Velvet,' it's crucial to maintain moist soil without it being waterlogged. During the growing season, typically spring and summer, water the plant once every week with about 16 ounces of water, depending on the pot size and the ambient temperature. Reduce the frequency to every other week during the dormant period in fall and winter, ensuring the top inch of soil dries out between waterings. Always use lukewarm water and water directly onto the soil to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases.

Light

Bear's ear thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. The ideal spot is one where it can receive morning light but is shielded from the intense direct sun of the afternoon. East-facing windows are often ideal for these plants. Ensure the plant is kept in a well-lit room, as insufficient light can result in weak growth and fewer flowers.

Temperature

Bear's ear prefers a cool to moderate temperature range. The ideal temperature for this plant is between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about 40 degrees Fahrenheit and can tolerate maximum temperatures up to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Protecting the plant from sudden temperature changes and drafts is important for its well-being.

Pruning

Pruning Bear's ear mostly involves deadheading spent flowers to encourage new blooms and removing any dead or yellowing leaves to maintain its appearance and health. Pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season, usually in the spring and summer. The best time to do heavy pruning is in the early spring before new growth starts, which can also help to rejuvenate an older plant.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Auricula Primrose (Primula auricula 'Blue Velvet') thrives best in well-draining, slightly alkaline soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. A soil mix containing one part loam, one part peat-free compost, and one part perlite or grit to aid drainage is ideal for this plant.

Repotting

Auricula Primrose should be repotted annually to replenish nutrients in the soil and prevent overcrowding of the roots. This is best done in late summer or early fall, after blooming has finished.

Humidity & Misting

The Auricula Primrose prefers moderate humidity levels. It thrives best with humidity around 50-60%. Avoid excessive humidity to prevent issues with mold and rot.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Auricula Primrose needs bright, indirect light and cool temperatures.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial shade and shelter from strong winds.

• Hardiness zone

  4-8 USDA

Life cycle

The Primula auricula 'Blue Velvet', commonly known as Auricula or Mountain Cowslip, begins its life cycle when its seeds germinate in a moist, well-drained growing medium. Emergence of the seedlings marks the start, which then develop true leaves and establish themselves as young plants. The vegetative stage involves the growth of foliage and development of a strong root system. This perennial enters a blooming phase in spring, producing distinctive blue flowers that attract pollinators and subsequently set seed after fertilization. Once flowering ends, the plant enters a period of dormancy in colder climates or may continue to grow vegetatively in milder conditions. With proper care and conditions, the Auricula's life cycle can repeat for several years as it returns from dormancy to bloom each spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Propogation: The Primula auricula 'Blue Velvet', commonly known as Auricula, is typically propagated by division, which is best done in the late summer or early fall, after flowering has finished. To propagate by division, carefully lift the plant from the ground and gently separate the clumps into smaller sections, ensuring each section has a piece of the root system attached. These new divisions can then be replanted in well-draining soil, spaced approximately 6 inches (about 15 centimeters) apart, and watered thoroughly to establish them. This method of division helps to rejuvenate older plants and also to produce new plants that are genetically identical to the parent, maintaining any unique characteristics of 'Blue Velvet', such as its striking blue flowers.