Auricula Primula auricula 'Marie Crousse' (Au/d)
ABOUT
Primula auricula 'Marie Crousse', commonly known as Bear's Ear, is a unique and showy perennial. This particular variety has attractive rosettes of thick, fleshy leaves that are somewhat round in shape, creating a lush mat of foliage. The leaves have a slightly velvety texture and a bright green color which often has a hint of duskiness like a powdery bloom. The true charm of 'Marie Crousse' lies in its remarkable flowers. They bloom in clusters, rising above the foliage on sturdy stalks, and are known for their exquisite form and color. Each flower possesses an intricately patterned center, a distinguishing feature of auriculas, which can be thought of as a small, ornate eye. This center is often of a strikingly contrasting color to the petals. The petals themselves are a sumptuous deep red, velvety and dense, which gives the blooms a luxurious and opulent appearance. The petal edges are sometimes lightly fringed, adding to the intricacy of the flower's overall aesthetic. The flowers are particularly revered for their beautiful staged arrangement that resembles tiers in a theater or the ruffles of an elegant gown. Sure to catch the eye of any garden visitor, 'Marie Crousse' is a cultivar celebrated for its ornamental qualities, showcasing a charming palette of colors and a robust yet refined floral display that endures through its flowering season.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Primulaceae
Synonyms
Bear's Ear, Mountain Cowslip, Auricula
Common names
Primula auricula 'Marie Crousse' (Au/d).
ToxicityTo humans
Bear's ear is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, if ingested in large quantities, it might cause mild stomach upset in some individuals, although such cases are rare. Handling the plant can sometimes result in skin irritation due to the presence of sensitizing compounds called primin, which is a form of contact dermatitis, so it is recommended to wear gloves for those with sensitive skin.
To pets
Bear's ear is not considered highly toxic to pets, but ingestion can potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, in some animals. It is always best to prevent pets from eating ornamental plants, as individual sensitivity could result in adverse reactions. If you suspect your pet has ingested a large amount of any part of the plant and is showing symptoms, consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
6 inches (15 cm)
Spread
9 inches (23 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: The Primula auricula 'Marie Crousse' adds vibrant color and visual interest to gardens and outdoor spaces with its striking flowers.
- Compact Growth: It is well-suited for small garden areas or rockeries due to its compact size.
- Extended Blooming Season: The Bear's ear boasts a long blooming period, typically providing floral display from early to late spring.
- Low Maintenance: This plant requires minimal care once established, making it ideal for busy gardeners or those seeking easy-care landscapes.
- Pollinator Attraction: Bear's ear flowers can attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, supporting local ecosystems.
- Container Gardening: Suitable for pots and containers, allowing for garden displays on balconies and patios.
- Cold Tolerance: Primula auricula 'Marie Crousse' is cold-resistant, making it a robust choice for temperate climates.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The leaves of Auricula can be used in a potpourri mix to add a light, fresh scent to your indoor spaces.
- Its vibrant flowers can be pressed and incorporated into personal stationery or bookmark designs for a touch of natural beauty.
- Auricula blossoms can be crystallized with egg whites and sugar to decorate cakes and desserts for an edible ornamental flair.
- Garden enthusiasts can use Auricula flowers in a dye-making process to obtain natural colors for fabrics or yarns.
- Auricula, when dried, can be used to create botanical art such as floral arrangements, wall hangings, or framed decorations.
- With its interesting form and color, Auricula can serve as an educational tool for botany or gardening classes focusing on plant morphology and hybridization.
- The unique appearance of Auricula may be utilized in photography as a vibrant subject for macro photography and still life compositions.
- Growers may enter Auricula flowers in horticultural shows or competitions, leveraging their distinct characteristics for awards and recognition.
- Auricula can be cultivated for use in themed gardens, such as alpine collections, fairy gardens, or historical renaissance gardens.
- The plant can act as a living paint palette for artists, with its diverse range of flower hues inspiring color choices and compositions.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Bear's Ear is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Bear's Ear is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Hope: Primula, commonly known as primrose, often symbolizes hope due to its early spring blooming, signifying the end of winter and the promise of new beginnings.
- Youthful beauty: The delicate nature and bright colors of the primrose associate it with the freshness and beauty of youth.
- Constancy: In the language of flowers, the primrose can represent constancy and eternal love, much like the unchanging nature of true affection.
- Courage: Primroses are some of the first flowers to bloom after the winter, representing courage and the ability to overcome challenges.
WaterBear's Ear should be watered thoroughly, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. On average, water once a week, but this can vary based on temperature and humidity. During the growing season, the plant may need more frequent watering, such as twice a week, especially if it's kept outdoors. Each watering should be approximately one to two gallons, depending on the size of the plant and the pot. Reduce watering in the winter to prevent over-saturation of the soil, as the plant is dormant during this period.
LightBear's Ear thrives in bright, indirect light. It should be placed in a spot where it receives morning light or filtered afternoon sun, avoiding direct midday sun which can scorch its leaves. An east or north-facing window is an excellent location, providing the right balance of light throughout the day for optimal growth.
TemperatureBear's Ear prefers cool to moderate temperatures with a range from about 50 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive short periods as low as 40 degrees Fahrenheit but should not be exposed to temperatures below freezing. The ideal temperature conditions would be around 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and slightly cooler at night.
PruningPruning Bear's Ear is necessary to remove dead or fading flowers and to encourage bushier growth. It should be pruned just after the blooming period, typically in late spring or early summer. Snip off the spent flower stems at their base and remove any dead or yellowing leaves. Pruning once a season is usually enough to keep the plant healthy and looking its best.
CleaningAs needed
SoilAuricula Primrose prefers a well-draining, slightly alkaline soil mix with pH around 6.5 to 7.5. A good mix could include one part loam, one part leaf mold or peat moss, and one part perlite or grit to ensure proper drainage and aeration.
RepottingAuricula Primrose should be repotted every one to two years or when the potting mix deteriorates. Spring is a good time for repotting, allowing the plant to establish in the new compost before the growing season.
Humidity & MistingAuricula Primrose thrives at moderate humidity levels ranging from 50% to 60%. It's important to maintain good air circulation to avoid diseases associated with high humidity.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Auricula Primrose in bright indirect light indoors with cool temps.
Outdoor
Plant Auricula Primrose in partial shade, shelter from harsh elements.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleThe life of the Auricula 'Marie Crousse' begins with seed germination, typically in late winter or early spring, where warmth and moisture trigger the development of the first roots and shoots. This is followed by the vegetative growth stage, during which the plant develops leaves and forms a rosette structure, accumulating resources to support flowering. Flowering typically occurs in the spring, showcasing the plant's vibrant, colorful blooms, which is the plant's reproductive stage involving pollination by insects or self-pollination. After pollination, the Auricula 'Marie Crousse' produces seeds, encapsulating its genetic material for the next generation. The plant then enters a dormancy period in the late summer or fall, conserving energy and resources as temperatures drop. The Auricula 'Marie Crousse' is perennial, meaning it can regrow from the same root system year after year, repeating this cycle throughout its lifetime.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring
The Auricula primrose, which is what Primula auricula 'Marie Crousse' is commonly known as, is generally propagated by division. The best time to divide these plants is in late summer or early fall, once flowering has completed. To propagate by division, carefully lift the parent plant from the soil and use a knife or your hands to gently separate the plant into smaller sections, ensuring each new section has some roots attached. These divisions should then be replanted into well-draining soil at the same depth they were originally growing. Water the new plants thoroughly after planting to help establish them. This method encourages quick establishment and flowering in the following season.
