Auricula Primula auricula 'Matthew Yates' (Au/d)
ABOUT
Primula auricula 'Matthew Yates' is a striking perennial plant known for its unique and ornamental flowers. The blooms of this particular auricula are characterized by their vivid coloring, typically featuring a bright, deep yellow center that's often referred to as an 'eye'. Surrounding the eye, the petals exhibit a rich velvety texture and can be painted in shades that may range from deep purple to vibrant burgundy, encompassing a spectrum of reds and maroons with a waxy sheen that adds to their visual appeal. The flowers are typically arranged in clusters atop sturdy stems which rise above a rosette of foliage. The leaves are fleshy and have a somewhat rubbery texture, contributing to the plant's resilience. They are usually a shade of fresh, medium green and can have a slightly powdery or dusty surface, which complements the vividness of the flowers. The edges of the leaves may exhibit a subtle scalloping, lending a delicate touch to the overall robust nature of the plant. Together, the leaves and flowers of Primula auricula 'Matthew Yates' create a compact, rounded appearance that makes the plant a favorite among gardeners and plant enthusiasts for its decorative charm and the burst of color it provides to garden spaces. It's particularly prized in rock gardens, as a container plant or even in alpine houses where its beauty can be showcased.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Primulaceae
Synonyms
Bear's Ear, Mountain Cowslip, Auricula
Common names
Primula auricula 'Matthew Yates'
ToxicityTo humans
The Primula auricula, commonly known as Auricula, is generally considered to be non-toxic to humans. There are no widespread reports or significant concerns regarding poisoning from consuming or handling this plant. However, it is important to note that some individuals may experience skin irritation or an allergic reaction upon handling certain Primula species due to the presence of primin, a known irritant. These reactions are usually mild and can include redness, itching, or rash. Ingesting parts of the plant typically does not lead to serious toxicity or poisoning in humans.
To pets
The Primula auricula, commonly known as Auricula, is not considered to be highly toxic to pets. However, similar to humans, some pets may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of the plant. Symptoms could include vomiting or diarrhea but are unlikely to be severe. Additionally, some animals might have an allergic reaction to the plant, which could manifest as skin irritation or itching if they come into contact with it. As with any plant, it is generally advisable to prevent pets from eating ornamental plants to avoid any potential adverse reactions.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
6-12 inches (15-30 cm)
Spread
6-12 inches (15-30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4-8
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Adds vibrant color and unique texture to gardens with its bright, often multicolored flowers.
- Compact Size: Suitable for small garden spaces, rock gardens, and containers due to its small stature.
- Hardiness: Adaptable to a variety of climates and can survive through cold winters with minimal protection.
- Low Maintenance: Requires little upkeep once established, making it an ideal plant for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Prolonged Blooming Season: Offers a long blooming period from early spring to late summer, providing long-term visual interest.
- Attracts Pollinators: Invites beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, promoting pollination in the garden.
- Versatility: Can be used in diverse landscape designs, including alpine troughs, perennial borders, and as ground cover.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Primula auricula 'Matthew Yates' can be used in miniature gardens or fairy gardens due to its compact size, adding a touch of color and whimsy to such settings.
- The leaves of this plant can be used to create a natural green dye for fabrics, offering a sustainable way to color textiles.
- Its vibrant flowers can be pressed and included in handmade paper, providing a decorative element for craft lovers.
- The blooms can be used as an ornamental addition to salads, giving an edible yet decorative touch to culinary presentations.
- As a subject for botanical illustration, this specific variety offers a challenge to artists with its unique coloration and form.
- The plant can be used in educational settings to teach about hybridization and selective breeding due to its cultivated variety status.
- In photography, the flowers of Primula auricula 'Matthew Yates' serve as a stunning and colorful subject for macro photography enthusiasts.
- They can be used as a natural pest deterrent when planted among vegetables, as their scent can repel certain insects.
- Primula auricula 'Matthew Yates' can be grown as part of an alpine trough garden, which replicates a mountainous habitat on a small scale.
- These plants can serve as living gifts or favors for special events, symbolizing endurance due to their hardy nature.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Auricula is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Auricula is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Pride: The auricle shape of the Primula auricula 'Matthew Yates' is often associated with pride, harking back to its historical importance in the Victorian era when it was highly prized by collectors.
- Uniqueness: The specific cultivar of 'Matthew Yates' with its distinctive coloring suggests the symbolism of uniqueness or standing out from the crowd.
- Boldness: With its rich, deep colors, the Primula auricula 'Matthew Yates' is sometimes symbolic of boldness and courage in the language of flowers.
- Delicacy: Despite its striking appearance, the auricula is a delicate plant that requires careful cultivation, thus symbolizing the concept of fragility or delicate beauty.
- Bearing up under adversity: As Primula auricula can grow in rocky, alpine regions, it is often seen as a symbol of endurance and resilience.
WaterAuricula Primroses require consistent moisture, so it is essential to water them whenever the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. Typically, this might mean watering with approximately 1 gallon per plant every week, although this can vary depending on climate conditions and soil drainage. Over the warmer and drier months, you might need to water every few days to maintain moisture levels, whereas in cooler, wetter months, less frequent watering is needed. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. It is best to water the plant at its base to avoid getting water on the leaves which can lead to disease.
LightAuricula primroses thrive best in bright, indirect light when grown indoors. They enjoy some morning sunlight but should be protected from intense afternoon rays, so an east-facing window can be an ideal spot for them. Outdoors, they prefer partial shade, especially in areas with hot summers. A location that receives filtered sunlight or light dappled shade is optimal, as too much direct sun can damage their leaves.
TemperatureAuricula Primroses prefer cool to moderate temperatures, ideally between 50°F and 70°F for optimal growth. These plants can survive brief periods of colder weather, down to about 20°F, but they should be protected from severe cold. Similarly, they can tolerate short spikes up to 80°F, but consistently high temperatures can be detrimental. Providing the right temperature range will ensure the health and flowering of the plant.
PruningAuricula Primroses benefit from regular deadheading to remove spent flowers and encourage further blooming. Prune out any dead or yellowing leaves to maintain a neat appearance and promote air circulation. It is best to prune them after flowering, which is typically in the late spring or early summer. Occasional thinning of the foliage can also help prevent disease by improving airflow around the leaves.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor Auricula Primroses, a well-draining soil mix is essential, consisting of equal parts loamy soil, peat or compost, and gritty material like perlite or fine gravel. They prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH, about 5.5 to 7.
RepottingAuricula Primroses should be repotted every year or two, preferably in the spring, to refresh the soil and provide room for growth.
Humidity & MistingAuricula Primroses thrive best at moderate humidity levels, around 50-60%, avoiding excessively dry air which can cause stress.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light, ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Grow in partial shade, shelter from harsh elements.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleThe Auricula, also known as Bear's Ear, begins its life cycle when seeds are sown in late winter or early spring, germinating in moist, well-drained soil. After germination, seedlings grow into a rosette of leaves at the soil surface, a stage which can last for several weeks to months as they develop a strong root system. As the plant matures, it sends up flowering stalks, usually in its second year, with the characteristic bright and vividly colored blooms appearing in mid to late spring. The flowers are hermaphroditic, containing both male and female organs, and are predominantly pollinated by insects. Following pollination, seeds develop in capsule-like fruits that, when mature, open to release the seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. The parent plant may die after seeding (if it is a biennial form), but many auriculas are perennials that will continue to grow and bloom for several years if conditions are suitable.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Primula auricula 'Matthew Yates', commonly known as Auricula, is typically propagated through division, which is the most popular method. The best time to propagate Auriculas by division is in the late summer after the flowering period when the plant is entering its dormant phase. To propagate through division, carefully dig up the plant and gently separate the offsets from the main clump, ensuring that each division has roots attached. The divisions should then be replanted in well-draining soil at the same depth they were growing previously and watered in lightly. Care should be taken to not overwater, as Auriculas prefer to stay on the drier side. It usually takes a few weeks for the divisions to establish themselves and start new growth.
