Bear's Ear Primula Primula auricula 'Erjon' (Au/s)
ABOUT
Primula auricula 'Erjon' is a captivating plant known for its ornate and showy flowers. The blooms exhibit a range of colors from deep, rich purples to vibrant yellows, often with a velvety texture that adds to their allure. The petals radiate from a central tube, creating a distinctive, open-faced look that is characteristic of this group of plants. These plants typically present their blooms in clusters at the tip of sturdy stems, creating an impressive display. The foliage of 'Erjon' is equally attractive, composed of fleshy, green leaves that may have a slightly powdery or farinose coating, giving them a soft, frosted appearance. The leaves are typically arranged in a basal rosette, spreading outward from the base of the plant and providing a lush backdrop for the prominent flowers. It's crucial to note that the alluring beauty of this plant is not solely in its blossoms; the leaves themselves contribute a rich, verdant texture to the overall appearance. The contrast between the colorful blooms and the green foliage creates a visually stunning display that makes Primula auricula 'Erjon' a cherished plant for gardeners and plant enthusiasts alike.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Primulaceae
Synonyms
Bear's Ear, Mountain Cowslip, Auricula
Common names
Primula auricula 'Erjon'
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Primula auricula 'Erjon' is Auricula. Auriculas are not generally considered toxic to humans. However, some individuals may experience contact dermatitis when handling the plant due to its primin content, a known skin irritant. This irritation is typically limited to skin symptoms such as redness, itching, or rash. Ingesting Auricula is not commonly associated with poisoning, and there is limited information on severe consequences from ingestion. If ingested in large quantities, mild gastrointestinal upset might occur.
To pets
The common name for Primula auricula 'Erjon' is Auricula. Auriculas are not typically toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. While not considered particularly poisonous, some animals may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume large amounts of the plant. Signs of ingestion may include drooling, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. However, these symptoms are usually self-limiting and do not result in serious toxicity. It is always advisable to keep an eye on pets and prevent them from eating plants to avoid any potential issues.
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- Ornamental Appeal: Primula auricula 'Erjon', commonly known as Bear's ear, has unique and attractive flowers that add aesthetic value to gardens and landscapes.
- Easy to Grow: They are known for being low-maintenance and easy to care for, making them suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Prolific Blooming: Bear's ear produces numerous blossoms during its blooming season, providing a long-lasting display of color.
- Compact Size: Due to its compact growth habit, it is ideal for small spaces such as containers, borders, and rock gardens.
- Cold Tolerance: Bear's ear is resilient in cooler temperatures and can survive in climates with cold winters.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers can attract bees and butterflies, promoting pollination in the garden.
- Diverse Color Range: Offers a variety of color options, which can be used to create vibrant and dynamic garden designs.
- Perennial Growth: As a perennial plant, it comes back year after year, reducing the need for annual replanting.
- Edging Plant: Works well as an edging plant due to its neat growth habit, providing a tidy border for garden paths or beds.
- Heritage Plant: The variety has a long history of cultivation, which can be of interest to gardeners and plant enthusiasts who appreciate traditional cultivars.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography: Due to their unique and vivid colors, Auriculas can be great subjects for macro photography, capturing the intricate patterns and vibrant hues of their petals.
- Artistic inspiration: The distinct appearance of Auriculas can serve as an inspiration for painters and illustrators who appreciate botanical subjects in their artwork.
- Education: Auriculas can be used in educational settings, such as schools or botanical gardens, to teach about plant anatomy and hybridization techniques.
- Competition plants: Auriculas are often entered into flower shows and horticultural competitions due to their diverse and showy blooms.
- Theater and set design: Live Auriculas or realistic replicas can add natural beauty to theatrical productions, especially period pieces or fantasy settings.
- Theme gardens: These plants are ideal for creating specific themes in gardens, such as Victorian or alpine-style landscape designs.
- Special events: Potted Auriculas can be used as table centerpieces or floral arrangements for weddings, banquets, and other special occasions for a touch of elegance and color.
- Culinary decoration: Although not edible, Auriculas can be used as non-toxic garnish on plates or around food displays for decorative purposes.
- Symbolic gift: In some cultures, giving a unique and beautiful flower like an Auricula can symbolize a special and rare affection towards someone.
- Hobby breeding: Enthusiasts often engage in breeding Auriculas to create new, unique color variations or patterns, which can be a challenging and rewarding hobby.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Primula is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Primula is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Patience: The Primula auricula, commonly known as Auricula or Mountain Cowslip, often blooms early in spring, representing patience and the anticipation of beauty.
- Perseverance: Auriculas grow in alpine regions, symbolizing the ability to endure harsh conditions and overcome challenges.
- Uniqueness: With their diverse colors and patterns, Auriculas convey a message of individuality and the celebration of one's unique attributes.
- Delicacy: The delicate nature of the Auricula's flowers can represent vulnerability and the need to be handled gently in various situations.
- Benevolence: Historically, the flower has been associated with charity and kindness, possibly due to its inviting appearance and the generosity of gardeners who share these plants.
WaterBear's ear should be watered thoroughly, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings, typically once a week. Use lukewarm water to avoid shocking the plant and water at the base to keep moisture off the leaves and flowers, thus preventing any potential fungal diseases. Depending on the environmental conditions and pot size, you might need approximately half to one gallon of water every week during active growth in spring and summer. Cut back on watering during the dormant period in the fall and winter to prevent root rot.
LightBear's ear thrives best in bright, indirect sunlight. A north-facing windowsill or a spot that receives morning light and afternoon shade would be ideal. Avoid direct midday sun, which can scorch the leaves, and too much shade, which can lead to poor flowering and leggy growth.
TemperatureBear's ear prefers cooler temperatures, thriving between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit. It can tolerate a minimum temperature down to 40 degrees Fahrenheit but should not be exposed to freezing conditions. Elevated temperatures above 70 degrees Fahrenheit can stress the plant, so it's important to maintain cooler conditions, especially during the night.
PruningBear's ear should be pruned to remove dead or yellowing leaves and spent flowers to encourage new growth and maintain a tidy appearance. This pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season. The best time to conduct a more thorough pruning is immediately after flowering.
CleaningAs needed
SoilAuricula primroses prefer a well-draining, fertile soil mix with a slightly alkaline to neutral pH, ranging from 6.5 to 7.5. A suitable mix can be made from equal parts of loam, peat-free compost, and sharp sand or grit, which ensures proper drainage and aeration. Feeding with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season will keep the auriculas thriving.
RepottingAuricula primroses should be repotted annually, usually after flowering, to replenish the soil and allow for root growth. It's best done in late summer or early fall, giving the plant time to establish before winter.
Humidity & MistingAuricula primroses prefer moderate humidity levels; they thrive in outdoor conditions where the air is naturally humid. Indoor environments should be ventilated to avoid overly dry air, which can attract spider mites.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright indirect light, cool temperatures, and good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, sheltered from strong winds and direct noon sun.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cyclePrimula auricula 'Erjon', commonly known as Auricula or Bear's Ear, starts its life cycle as a seed, which upon germination in early spring, sprouts into a small seedling. The seedling develops a rosette of leaves at the soil level, and as it matures, it forms a deep taproot. In subsequent years, during spring, the Auricula grows flowering stems adorned with a cluster of colorful flowers, ranging from yellow to red, purple, or multi-colored. After pollination by insects, the flowers produce seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. Throughout the summer, the plant continues to grow vegetatively. As a perennial, the Auricula goes dormant in the fall and winter, with the leaves often withering back, to re-emerge and start the cycle again the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
Propogation: The Auricula, more specifically the Primula auricula 'Erjon', is typically propagated in late summer or early fall. The most popular method of propagation for this auricula is by division. As the plant matures, it forms offsets that can be gently separated from the parent plant. This process should be done when the plant is not in active growth. With care, each offset, which should have its own roots, can be potted into a mix of free-draining compost, ideally one part loam to two parts peat-free compost and grit. These new plants should be kept in a shaded, cool location and not allowed to dry out completely to establish themselves, gradually acclimating to more light as they root and grow.
