Auricula Primula auricula 'Purple Pip' (Au/d)
ABOUT
The Primula auricula 'Purple Pip', also known as auricula or mountain cowslip, is a striking ornamental plant known for its unique and vibrant flowers. The most captivating feature of this plant is its blooms, which display a rich, velvety purple color that is both intense and eye-catching. These flowers are particularly noted for their rounded shape and the way they present themselves in clusters or umbels, providing a showy display that can catch anyone's attention. Each flower is made up of several petals that arrange themselves in a circular fashion, emanating from the center where a contrasting cluster of bright yellow stamens is often visible, adding an extra layer of beauty and interest to the overall appearance. The edges of the petals may exhibit a subtle frilled or serrated pattern, providing a delicate texture that further enhances their visual appeal. The foliage of the auricula 'Purple Pip' forms a complementary backdrop to the blossoms. The leaves are generally broad and somewhat fleshy, with a slight waxy coating that can give them a somewhat shiny appearance. They emerge from the base of the plant in a rosette pattern, and their color is typically a deep, lush green that offsets the purple flowers nicely. Together, the contrast between the vivid purple blooms and the dark green leaves creates a picturesque and charming plant that is often a favorite among gardeners and plant enthusiasts who appreciate its unique beauty and flowering prowess.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Primulaceae
Synonyms
Bear's Ear Auricula, Mountain Cowslip, French Cowslip, Bear's Ear Primrose
Common names
Primula auricula 'Purple Pip'.
ToxicityTo humans
Auricula is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, as with many plants, some individuals may experience allergic reactions or skin irritation due to the plant's sap. Ingesting the plant is not typically associated with serious poisoning. However, if symptoms do occur, they might include mild stomach upset or dermatitis upon contact for those with sensitive skin.
To pets
Auricula is also generally considered non-toxic to pets. It is not known to cause serious poisoning in animals. However, as with humans, some pets may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of the plant, or possible skin irritation if they come into contact with the sap. If any unusual symptoms are observed after ingestion, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
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 'Purple Pip' offers an aesthetic addition to gardens with its striking purple flowers and ornamental foliage.
- Long Blooming Season: This plant blooms for an extended period, often from early spring throughout summer, providing color for several months.
- Hardiness: It is a hardy perennial that can withstand colder temperatures and is suitable for a range of climates.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, Auricula does not require much care beyond basic watering and occasional feeding, making it a good choice for low-maintenance gardens.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers of Auricula can attract bees and butterflies, which are beneficial for pollinating other plants in the garden.
- Versatility: Auricula is suitable for a variety of garden styles, including rock gardens, borders, and container gardening.
- Propagates Easily: These plants can be easily propagated by division, allowing gardeners to create more plants without purchasing new ones.
- Miniature Varieties: The compact size of 'Purple Pip' makes it suitable for small gardens or spaces where larger plants might not fit.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Subject: The striking purple petals of Auricula 'Purple Pip' can be used by photographers as a subject to create compelling macro photography art.
- Edible Decor: Its edible flowers can be used as a decorative and colorful addition to salads or as an adornment on cakes and desserts.
- Garden Design Element: The unique color of Auricula 'Purple Pip' can be used to create a dramatic contrast in rock gardens or alpine garden displays.
- Education and Research: Botanists and horticultural students may study the Primula Auricula 'Purple Pip' to understand plant hybridization and genetic traits.
- Crafts and Dried Flower Arrangements: Dried Auricula flowers can be incorporated into crafts such as handmade paper or used in dried floral arrangements for long-lasting decoration.
- Color Inspiration: Artists and designers can take inspiration from the vibrant purple hue for color palettes in various visual arts and interior design projects.
- Companion Planting: The Primula Auricula 'Purple Pip' can be planted alongside other alpine plants to create visually appealing and supportive ecosystems.
- Symbolism in Special Occasions: In some cultures, the Auricula flower might symbolize pride and uniqueness, making it a meaningful gift in special celebrations.
- Collectors' Specimen: Due to its distinctive features, it can be prized by plant collectors who specialize in Primulas or unique cultivars.
- Theme Gardens: Its distinct purple color can be a highlight in theme gardens, such as a purple-themed garden or a Shakespearean garden where the Auricula is mentioned in literary works.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Auricula is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Auricula is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Patience: Auriculas, often referred to as Bear's Ears, can symbolize patience due to their preference for slowly blossoming in early spring.
- Uniqueness: The 'Purple Pip' with its distinctive purple color and patterns can represent uniqueness or rarities in nature.
- Persistence: As a mountain plant, Bear's Ears are admired for their ability to thrive in challenging conditions, symbolizing persistence.
- Love and Affection: In floriography, auriculas are sometimes associated with love and affection, reflecting the plant's charming appearance.
WaterBear's Ear should be watered regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy, as it prefers consistent moisture. Generally, watering once a week with about 8-16 ounces of water should suffice, but this can vary depending on temperature, humidity, and soil conditions. It is essential to reduce watering in the winter when the plant is not actively growing. Always check the top inch of soil for dryness before watering again to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
LightBear's Ear thrives in bright, indirect light, making it perfect for an east-facing window where it can get gentle morning sunlight. Avoid placing it in full, direct afternoon sun, which can scorch the leaves. If natural light is limited, a spot under artificial grow lights can also support healthy growth.
TemperatureBear's Ear prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally between 50°F and 70°F. It can survive short periods outside this range but ensure it is not exposed to temperatures below 30°F or above 80°F as extreme temperatures can be harmful. Cool nights and a drop in temperature from day to night can help to mimic its natural alpine environment.
PruningPrune Bear's Ear to remove dead or yellowing leaves and spent flowers to encourage new growth and maintain a tidy appearance. It's best to prune right after blooming, typically in late spring or early summer. Pruning is typically done once a year or as necessary to remove unhealthy parts of the plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Auricula Primulas, including 'Purple Pip', is a well-draining mix with grit or perlite to enhance drainage. They prefer a soil pH of 6.0 to 7.5. Incorporating organic matter like leaf mold or compost can also benefit the plant by mimicking its natural alpine habitat.
RepottingAuricula Primulas should be repotted every 1-2 years to replenish nutrients and maintain soil structure. The best time to repot is immediately after they finish flowering, usually in late spring to early summer.
Humidity & MistingAuricula Primulas prefer moderate humidity levels but are adaptable to a wide range of indoor conditions. They do well with average household humidity, provided they have good air circulation to prevent mold and rot.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil moist.
Outdoor
Partial shade, sheltered from harsh sun and wind.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleThe life of the Auricula 'Purple Pip' begins with seed germination, which typically occurs in a cold, moist environment as winter wanes into spring. After germination, seedlings emerge and develop their first true leaves, starting a vegetative growth phase where the plant establishes a strong root system and foliage. As it matures, the Auricula enters a flowering stage usually in the spring, producing distinctive, colorful blooms that may attract pollinators. Once pollinated, the flower develops into a seed pod, signifying the reproductive stage, where seeds form and mature. After seed dispersal, the plant often enters a period of dormancy during colder months, reducing metabolic activity to conserve energy. The cycle is poised to begin anew with the next germination cycle, depending on environmental conditions that trigger the seeds to sprout.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Primula auricula 'Purple Pip', commonly known as Auricula Primrose, is best propagated through division, which is the most popular method for this plant. This process involves gently separating the plant’s offsets or side shoots from the main clump, making sure that each new section has its own set of roots. Propagation through division is best carried out in late summer to early fall, after the plant has finished flowering and is entering dormancy. Carefully dig up the plant, preserving as much of the root system as possible, then using your hands or a sharp knife, divide the clump into smaller pieces. These divisions can then be immediately replanted into well-draining soil and watered in to help establish them. This method will create new plants that are identical to the parent plant, maintaining the unique characteristics of the 'Purple Pip' cultivar.
