Auricula Primula auricula hort. 'Prometheus' (Au/d)
ABOUT
Primula auricula, commonly known as Bear's Ear, is a captivating plant with a distinct look that forms part of the 'Prometheus' cultivar group. It boasts intricate flowers that are sure to catch the eye, displaying a rich palette of colors that can range from deep, velvety purples to bright, cheerful yellows. The flowers typically have a circular shape with a prominent central zone called an "eye," which contrasts starkly in color with the rest of the petals and can be of yellow or white. The petals are often dusted with a fine, powdery coating, giving them a unique, frosted appearance. Surrounding the flowers, the plant has lush green, fleshy leaves that are sometimes edged with a delicate hint of red or purple. These leaves are rounded with a soft, velvety texture that adds to the overall plush look of the plant. The uniquely shaped leaves and the vibrant, contrasting colors of the flowers make the Primula auricula 'Prometheus' a pleasing and sought-after plant for garden enthusiasts.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Primulaceae
Synonyms
Bear's Ear, Auricula, Mountain Cowslip, Prometheus Auricula
Common names
Primula auricula 'Prometheus'
ToxicityTo humans
The plant known as Bear's Ear is generally considered not highly toxic to humans. However, like many plants, it may cause mild irritation if ingested or if its sap comes into contact with the skin. If ingested, symptoms might include nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, though such reactions are relatively uncommon. The most common consequence is likely to be mild skin irritation, which could present as redness, rash, or itching, particularly in individuals with sensitive skin or those allergic to the plant.
To pets
Bear's Ear is typically not highly toxic to pets. However, as with humans, if a pet ingests the plant, it could potentially experience mild gastrointestinal upset, which may include symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea. Similarly, the sap of the plant may cause mild skin irritation if it comes into contact with a pet's skin. Generally, the consequences of a pet interacting with or ingesting this plant are not severe.
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- Decorative Appeal: Adds vibrant color and visual interest to gardens, pots, and borders with its unique and colorful blooms.
- Easy to Grow: Known for being a low-maintenance plant that thrives in a variety of conditions, making it suitable for novice gardeners.
- Attracts Pollinators: Entices bees and butterflies, contributing to the pollination of nearby plants and supporting biodiversity.
- Long Blooming: Offers a long bloom season, providing color and beauty from early spring well into summer.
- Compact Size: Ideal for small spaces, rock gardens, and alpine displays due to its compact and neat growth habit.
- Variety of Colors: Available in a wide range of colors and patterns, allowing for versatile design and planting schemes.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Auricula 'Prometheus' can be used in floral arrangements especially during springtime, as its vivid colors can add an exotic touch to bouquets and centerpieces.
- This plant's showy flowers can be crystallized and used as edible decorations for cakes and desserts, adding both color and a unique flavor.
- Craft enthusiasts can press the flowers of the Auricula 'Prometheus' for use in handmade greeting cards and bookmarks for a natural, artistic flair.
- Gardeners sometimes use this plant as a natural dye to color fabrics and yarns, with the petals providing a range of tones depending on the mordant used.
- The thick, fleshy leaves of this plant can be used by horticulturists as a propagation material to cultivate new plants through leaf cuttings.
- Enthusiasts of miniature and fairy gardens find low-growing plants like the Auricula 'Prometheus' particularly suitable for creating these whimsical landscapes.
- The petals of the Auricula 'Prometheus' can serve as subtle, natural confetti for outdoor celebrations, integrating easily with the surrounding environment.
- In photography, the vivid colors and unique patterns of this plant provide a striking subject for macro photography, showcasing the intricacies of the blooms.
- As a cool-season flowering plant, Auricula 'Prometheus' can provide an early nectar source for pollinators emerging in the spring such as bees and butterflies.
- The plant has been used as a living educational tool for children learning about plant biology, as its visible parts are ideal for explaining basic botany concepts.
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- Unique Beauty: The 'Prometheus' variety of Auricula, also known as Bear's Ear, is admired for its unique beauty and striking colors, symbolizing distinctiveness and the appreciation of unique traits.
- Persistence: Auriculas are known for their resilience and ability to thrive in cooler climates, representing determination and the ability to persevere through challenging conditions.
- Adaptation: Since Auriculas can adapt to various environments, they symbolize flexibility and the ability to thrive in diverse situations.
- Pride: The showy nature of the Auricula 'Prometheus' can be seen as a symbol of pride, reflecting self-confidence and a sense of accomplishment.
WaterThe Bear's Ear should be watered moderately, aiming to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, typically spring and summer, water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which may be once or twice a week depending on climate conditions. Reduce watering in the fall and winter to prevent root rot, providing maybe a few ounces of water every couple of weeks just to prevent the soil from drying out completely. Concentrate on watering the soil directly rather than the leaves to minimize the risk of leaf diseases.
LightBear's Ear thrives best in bright, indirect light. It should be placed in a spot where it can receive ample morning sunlight but protected from the harsh afternoon sun, as too much direct light can scorch the leaves. An east-facing windowsill or a spot that gets filtered light through a sheer curtain would be ideal for maintaining the vibrancy of its foliage.
TemperatureBear's Ear prefers cool to moderate temperatures, thriving ideally between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant can withstand temperatures as low as 40 degrees but should not be exposed to frost or temperatures below freezing. Keep the plant away from drafts and extreme temperature changes to ensure its health and growth.
PruningPruning Bear's Ear is essential for removing dead or faded flowers to encourage further blooming and to maintain the plant's shape. Prune right after the bloom cycle is completed, which is typically in late spring or early summer. Remove any yellowing or dead leaves as they appear to keep the plant healthy and to reduce the risk of disease.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Primula auricula, commonly known as Auricula Primrose, should be well-draining and fertile, with a good blend of loam, peat, and perlite or horticultural grit to ensure proper drainage. The recommended pH range for Auricula Primroses is slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.0 and 7.0, to maintain optimal growth and flowering.
RepottingAuricula Primroses should be repotted every year or two to replenish nutrients and prevent the plant from becoming root-bound. This regular repotting will help in maintaining the health and vigor of the plant.
Humidity & MistingAuricula Primroses thrive best in environments with moderate humidity levels. It is ideal to maintain humidity around 50-60% for optimal growth and to prevent stress on the plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
For best results, provide bright, indirect light and avoid hot sun.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, shelter from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cyclePrimula auricula 'Prometheus', commonly known as Auricula or Mountain Cowslip, begins its life cycle with seed germination, which occurs in the cooler, moist conditions of spring. The seedlings develop into a rosette of leaves as they establish a root system. The following spring, the plant enters its vegetative growth stage, where the rosette expands and the plant gains strength. After a period of vegetative growth, usually in the second year, the Auricula 'Prometheus' enters its reproductive phase, producing tall flowering stems topped with clusters of ornate, colorful flowers ranging from bright yellows to deep purples. Once pollination has occurred, often facilitated by insects, the flowers will form seed pods that mature and eventually disperse the seeds for the next generation. The plant may enter a dormant phase during unfavorable conditions, such as hot or dry summers or cold winters, before resuming growth as conditions improve.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Primula auricula, commonly referred to as Auricula Primrose 'Prometheus', is typically propagated through division, which is best performed just after the flowering season has concluded, usually in late spring or early summer. To propagate by division, carefully lift the parent plant from the ground ensuring to maintain a sizable amount of root for each division. Using a clean, sharp knife, divide the clump into smaller sections, each with at least one rosette of leaves and a portion of the root system. Replant the divisions immediately at the same soil depth they were originally growing, spacing them about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) apart to allow for adequate air circulation and growth. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly to encourage the roots to establish in their new location. This method is the most common way gardeners propagate Auricula Primrose 'Prometheus', as it maintains the genetic traits of the parent plant and is relatively simple to perform.
