Auricula Primula auricula 'Bradford City' (Au/a)
ABOUT
Primula auricula 'Bradford City' is also known as bear's ear auricula. This cultivated variety is a perennial plant with a striking appearance. It has a rosette of smooth, leathery, green leaves that provide a lush backdrop for its distinctive flowers. The blooms of 'Bradford City' are particularly remarkable, featuring a bright yellow center, which is called the eye, surrounded by a rich, velvety red to deep burgundy petals. These circular flowers have a uniform look, presenting a showy display that can catch anyone's eye in a garden setting. The petals may have a soft, pastel appearance or can also be dusted with a fine, powdery coating that gives them a unique texture, often referred to as farina. This dusting can sometimes give the flowers and leaves a silvery or frosted look. The contrast between the greenery and the vibrant colors of the flowers creates a compelling visual spectacle. This type of auricula is beloved by gardeners and plant enthusiasts for its ornamental qualities and the fact that it can produce a remarkable show of flowers, usually in the spring. The appearance of the blooms and foliage make this plant a favorite choice for garden borders, rock gardens, and for display in traditional auricula theatres, where their beauty can be appreciated up close.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Primulaceae.
Synonyms
Bear's Ear Auricula, Mountain Cowslip, Bear's Ear Primrose.
Common names
Primula auricula 'Bradford City'
ToxicityTo humans
Bear's ear is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, some individuals may be sensitive to this plant and in rare cases may experience mild irritation or an allergic reaction if the plant is handled or ingested. The most common symptoms would likely be dermatitis or irritation of the skin upon contact. If any part of the plant is ingested, it could potentially cause mild stomach upset, but severe poisoning is unlikely.
To pets
Bear's ear is generally regarded as safe for pets and is not known to be toxic. However, as with humans, individual pets could potentially have a mild allergic reaction or experience gastrointestinal upset if they ingest the plant. Symptoms may include vomiting or diarrhea, but significant toxicity or severe poisoning is not common for this plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
6 inches (15 cm)
Spread
6 inches (15 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: The Primula auricula 'Bradford City', commonly known as Auricula, features vibrant colored flowers that bring visual interest to gardens and containers.
- Pollinator Attraction: Auriculas can attract bees and butterflies, promoting pollination in the garden.
- Easy to Grow: They are known to be hardy and easy to cultivate, making them suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Versatility: Auricula plants are suitable for a variety of garden settings, including borders, rockeries, and alpine gardens.
- Compact Size: Their small stature means they can be grown in smaller spaces or containers, perfect for gardens with limited space.
- Spring Interest: Auriculas provide early spring blooms, offering a splash of color after the winter season.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Floral Arrangement Enhancer: Auricula flowers can be used to add a unique, eye-catching look to bouquets and arrangements due to their vibrant colors and distinct shape.
- Photography Subject: The auricula's distinct form and vivid colors make it a popular subject for botanical photographers and artists looking to capture the beauty of unique plants.
- Educational Tool: Horticulture educators can use Auricula plants to teach about plant breeding, hybridization, and the cultivation of alpine plants.
- Cake Decoration: Edible auricula flowers can be candied or used fresh to decorate cakes and pastries for an elegant, floral touch.
- Jewelry Inspiration: The shape and colors of Auricula blooms can inspire jewelers and crafters in creating floral-themed accessories and designs.
- Fragrance Inspiration: Although not commonly known for their scent, auriculas can provide a subtle fragrance note for those creating bespoke or natural perfumes.
- Theatrical Props: Auricula flowers can be used in theatrical performances or photo shoots as props to create a specific setting or period ambiance.
- Garden Photography Backdrops: With their dense clusters of flowers, Auricula plants serve as excellent backdrops for garden photography, enhancing the richness of the visual scene.
- Literary Symbol: Auriculas can be used in literature and poetry as a symbol of rarity and delicacy, representing characters or themes that possess these qualities.
- Color Palette Inspiration: Artists and designers can derive color palettes from the auricula’s vibrant array of hues for various creative projects.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Auricula is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Auricula is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Unique Beauty: The Primula auricula, commonly known as Auricula, is known for its unique and varied colors, symbolizing distinctiveness and the beauty of being different.
- Hospitality: Traditionally, Auriculas were often grown in Auricula Theaters, which were display cases in high society gardens. This association with ornate garden presentations links Auriculas to the notion of welcoming and entertaining guests.
- Pride: With its bold, vibrant colors and patterns, the Auricula can denote a sense of pride or self-satisfaction, perhaps because this plant was historically prized and collected by enthusiasts who took great pride in showcasing them.
- Courage: Surviving and blooming in early spring, often in alpine or subalpine areas, the Auricula represents courage and the ability to thrive in challenging conditions.
WaterAuriculas like Primula auricula 'Bradford City' need consistent moisture to thrive but dislike waterlogged conditions. Water these plants regularly to keep the soil moist but not soggy. During the active growth period in spring and summer, watering once a week with about one gallon per plant should suffice. During the cooler months, reduce watering frequency as the plant's growth slows down. Always check the top inch of soil for dryness and water if it feels dry to the touch.
LightAuriculas, such as Primula auricula 'Bradford City,' prefer bright, indirect light. They thrive in a northern or east-facing spot where they receive morning light but are shielded from the intense midday sun. Avoid placing them in full southern exposure without any shade as this can be too harsh for the plant.
TemperatureAuriculas like Primula auricula 'Bradford City' prefer cooler temperatures and can tolerate a wide range. The ideal temperature range is between 50°F and 60°F, but these robust plants can survive temperatures as low as 20°F and as high as 80°F for short periods. Always protect the plant from extreme temperature changes and frost.
PruningAuriculas like Primula auricula 'Bradford City' require pruning to remove dead or fading flowers to encourage further blooms and maintain the plant's shape. Prune after the main flowering period, typically in late spring or early summer. Cut back the flowering stems to the base and remove any dead or damaged leaves. This procedure is typically needed once a year after the blooming cycle.
CleaningAs needed
SoilAuricula Primrose prefers well-draining, moderately fertile soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. A mix of loam, peat, and perlite or sand is ideal to provide the necessary drainage and nutrients.
RepottingAuricula Primrose should be repotted every one to two years to replenish the soil and give the roots room to grow. It is best to repot after flowering in the spring or summer.
Humidity & MistingAuricula Primrose thrives best at average to slightly above average humidity levels, ranging from 50% to 70%. Avoid overly humid conditions to prevent fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright, indirect light and cool temperatures.
Outdoor
Choose a partially shaded spot with well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cyclePrimula auricula 'Bradford City', commonly known as Auricula, begins its life cycle when seeds are sown in moist, well-drained soil during late winter to spring. After germination, the seedlings emerge and grow into rosettes of fleshy leaves, indicative of their vegetative stage; this is usually during the spring. Following the vegetative stage, Auriculas undergo a period of bud formation as the weather warms up. Flowering occurs typically in late spring to early summer, when vibrant, ornate flowers bloom, attracting pollinators for sexual reproduction. After pollination, the plant produces seed pods which mature, and once the seeds are ripe, they are released from the pod to begin a new cycle. Outside of propagation seasons, Auriculas enter a phase of dormancy during colder weather, conserving energy for the next cycle of growth.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Propogation: The Primula auricula 'Bradford City', commonly known as Auricula, is typically propagated by division, which is best done in late summer or after flowering. To propagate by division, carefully lift the parent plant from the ground and gently separate the offsets, which are the small clumps of leaves with their own root systems, from the main plant. Ensure each offset has a good root system attached. Replant the offsets immediately, spacing them about 6 to 12 inches apart to allow room for growth. Water them in well after planting to help establish the new divisions. This method is popular because it maintains the specific characteristics of the parent plant and allows for a relatively easy and successful propagation.
