Auricula Primula auricula 'Camelot' (Au/d)

Water

Auricula, also known as Bear's Ear, should be watered moderately, ensuring that the soil remains slightly moist but never waterlogged. During active growth in spring and fall, water them with about a quarter of a gallon per plant per week, depending on climate and soil conditions. In the hot summer months or if grown indoors where it's warmer, check the soil moisture more frequently, as you may need to water twice a week. Cut back on watering during the winter dormancy period to prevent root rot, providing only enough to keep the soil from drying out completely.

Light

Auriculas prefer bright, indirect light with protection from harsh afternoon sun. A north-facing windowsill or a spot that receives filtered sunlight is ideal for these plants. Avoid placing them in deep shade, as this can lead to leggy growth and reduce flowering. They thrive under bright but diffused light conditions, which mimic their natural alpine habitat.

Temperature

Auriculas enjoy cool to moderate temperatures and can tolerate a range from around 40°F to 75°F. They are hardy down to freezing temperatures but should not be subjected to prolonged periods below 40°F. The ideal range for growing Auriculas is between 50°F and 65°F, which encourages healthy growth and plentiful blooms in the spring.

Pruning

Auriculas should be pruned to remove dead or fading flowers to encourage a second bloom and to keep the plant looking tidy. The best time to prune is right after the first bloom fades, typically in late spring or early summer. Occasional thinning of crowded foliage can also help prevent disease by improving air circulation within the plant.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Auricula Primrose prefers well-draining, slightly alkaline soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. A good mix would contain one part loam, one part peat-free compost, and one part grit or fine gravel to aid drainage. Avoid heavy, waterlogged soils to prevent root rot.

Repotting

Auricula Primroses should be repotted annually, preferably after flowering or in early autumn. Regular repotting helps to maintain vigor and prevent soil compaction, which can hamper their health.

Humidity & Misting

Auricula Primroses prefer moderate humidity levels, but they can tolerate lower humidity environments. A range between 50-60% humidity is ideal for their growth without promoting leaf diseases that can occur in too moist conditions.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and well-drained soil.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial shade; protect from intense afternoon sun.

• Hardiness zone

  4-8 USDA

Life cycle

The life of Auricula 'Camelot' begins with seed germination in a moist, well-drained medium at cool temperatures; after several weeks, the seedlings emerge. The seedlings gradually develop into rosettes of fleshy, often farina-covered leaves during the vegetative stage. As the plant matures, it produces flower stalks with clusters of ornate, colorful flowers during the blooming period, which typically occurs in spring. After pollination, either by insects or through self-fertilization, the flowers develop into seed pods that eventually dry and release the seeds, thus completing the reproductive stage. During the perennial phase, the plant may go dormant in winter, reducing above-ground growth, but will resume growth and enter another flowering cycle when conditions become favorable in the following spring. As long as growing conditions are met and it is protected from extreme cold, 'Camelot' can live and complete its life cycle for several years.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Propogation: Primula auricula 'Camelot', commonly known as Auricula, is often propagated through division, which is ideally carried out in late summer after the plant has finished flowering. To propagate by division, carefully lift the plant from the ground using a garden fork to minimize root damage. Gently separate the clumps of rosettes, making sure each new division has a portion of roots attached. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were originally growing, spacing them about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) apart to give them enough room to grow. Water the new plants thoroughly to help establish them in their new location. Division not only helps to propagate these cherished perennials but also rejuvenates older plants that may have become too crowded, which can lead to reduced flowering.