Auricula Primula auricula 'Red Gauntlet' (Au/s)
ABOUT
Primula auricula 'Red Gauntlet' (Au/s) is an eye-catching perennial plant known for its distinct flowers and foliage. The flowers are the main attraction, showing off bold, deep red petals that can appear almost velvety. These vibrant petals surround a bright, golden-yellow center, which creates a striking contrast and adds a touch of warmth to the overall appearance. The blooms cluster together at the top of the stems, and due to their richness in color, they often become the focal point in gardens during their flowering period. The leaves of the 'Red Gauntlet' are noteworthy as well, typically presenting a lush, green backdrop which further accentuates the red of the flowers. The foliage may have a slightly dusty or powdery look, creating a soft texture that complements the vivid blossoms. Overall, the plant exudes a sense of charm and vibrancy, often catching the eye of passersby and gardening enthusiasts with its richly colored blooms and contrasting center. The 'Red Gauntlet' is a popular choice for adding a splash of color to garden borders, rock gardens, or as part of container displays where its decorative appeal can be admired up close.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Primulaceae
Synonyms
Bear's Ear, Mountain Cowslip, Auricula
Common names
Primula auricula 'Red Gauntlet'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Bear's ear, which is the most common name for Primula auricula 'Red Gauntlet', is not considered highly toxic to humans. However, as with many plants, it can cause mild discomfort if ingested. Some people may also have skin reactions upon contact with the sap due to the presence of primin, a compound found in the plant. Ingesting parts of the Bear's ear can potentially cause mild symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. It is always advisable to avoid consuming parts of ornamental plants due to potential adverse reactions.
To pets
The Bear's ear is not typically listed as a highly toxic plant to pets. However, ingestion can result in mild gastrointestinal upset, similar to its effect on humans. Symptoms might include vomiting and diarrhea if pets consume parts of the Bear's ear. As pets can have variable sensitivities to plants, it's best to prevent them from eating ornamental plants. If your pet ingests any part of this plant and displays symptoms, it is advisable to contact a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
6 inches (15 cm)
Spread
6 inches (15 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Adds vibrant color and visual interest to gardens and containers with its striking red flowers.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it can tolerate periods of dryness, requiring less frequent watering.
- Cold Hardiness: Capable of surviving in cooler climates and can endure light frosts, making it suitable for a variety of gardens.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it an ideal choice for busy or novice gardeners.
- Attracts Pollinators: Draws in bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems and aiding in the pollination of nearby plants.
- Long Blooming Period: Offers a lengthy season of blooms from spring to summer, providing long-lasting garden interest.
- Versatility: Can be grown in garden beds, borders, rockeries, or containers, offering flexibility in garden design.
- Compact Size: Generally stays small in size, which is perfect for gardens with limited space or for use as a border plant.
- Deer Resistant: Less likely to be damaged by deer, making it a good choice for gardens in areas with deer populations.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The brightly colored flowers of Red Gauntlet can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics, offering a range of hues from yellow to green depending on the mordant used.
- Dried auricula flowers can be incorporated into potpourri mixes for a subtle fragrance and splash of color in home decor.
- The Red Gauntlet's leaves are sometimes used as a garnish for high-end culinary presentations because of their unique appearance, although they are not commonly consumed.
- Florists may use the striking flowers of the auricula in wedding bouquets and boutonnieres for a touch of dramatic color.
- The plant can be featured in botanical art and photography due to its distinctive and vivid flowers, making it a popular subject for nature-inspired artwork.
- Gardeners might use the Red Gauntlet auricula to create a 'theatre' display, a traditional method of showcasing auriculas in steep, tiered stands.
- Auricula flowers can be used in crafting, such as pressing for bookmarks or adding a decorative element to handmade papers.
- Because of their resilience to cold temperatures, auriculas can be used in alpine gardens or rockeries to provide early spring color in colder climates.
- Red Gauntlet can be used for educating horticulture students about hybridization and plant genetics due to their extensive variety and breeding history.
- The plant might be used as a living gift, symbolizing uniqueness and rarity, given its status among collectors of alpine plants.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Auricula is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Auricula is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Unique Beauty: The Primula auricula, commonly known as "Auricula," often represents a unique and rare beauty due to its diverse and striking colors.
- Precision and Care: Known for its specific growing requirements, the Auricula symbolizes the love and attention given by horticulturists, thus standing for attention to detail and patience in nurturing.
- Overcoming Challenges: Since Auriculas can grow in alpine regions, they are a symbol of perseverance and the ability to thrive in and overcome challenging conditions.
- Exclusivity: The velvet-like texture and unique appearance of Auriculas confer the idea of exclusivity and luxury, marking them as a symbol for things that are cherished and highly valued.
WaterBear's ear should be watered regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged, which typically means watering once every week. During the active growing season in spring and summer, you may need to water as much as twice a week if conditions are particularly dry. It's important to use lukewarm water gently at the base of the plant, avoiding getting water on the foliage to prevent leaf rot. In a week, a mature Bear's ear will typically require around 1 gallon of water, depending on the climate and soil moisture levels.
LightBear's ear prefers bright, indirect sunlight and should be placed in a spot where it can receive morning light with protection from harsh afternoon sun. Ideally, place it in a location with partial shade or in an area that receives filtered light throughout the day, avoiding the intense, direct sun that can scorch its leaves.
TemperatureBear's ear thrives in cooler temperatures and can tolerate a range from 40°F to 75°F. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 50°F and 60°F. Bear's ear may struggle in temperatures that exceed 80°F and it should be protected from frost, which can damage or kill the plant.
PruningBear's ear benefits from pruning to remove dead or faded flowers and to encourage bushier growth. Prune after flowering by cutting back the flower stems to the base of the plant, and remove any dead or damaged leaves as needed. Typically, pruning is done once a year, immediately after the flowering period, to maintain plant health and appearance.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Auricula Primroses should be well-draining and loamy with some added grit or perlite. Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral pH, around 5.5 to 7.
RepottingAuricula Primroses should be repotted every one to two years to replenish nutrients and prevent soil compaction.
Humidity & MistingAuricula Primroses prefer moderate humidity levels but can tolerate a range; avoid overly dry air or damp conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil moist.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade and well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleThe life of the Auricula, specifically the 'Red Gauntlet' variety, begins with seed germination, occurring in a cool and moist environment typically in late winter or early spring. The seedlings grow into rosettes of leaves, which are the plant's vegetative stage, and with proper care, can develop within a few weeks to a few months. Once the plant is mature enough and conditions are right, usually in the spring, the Auricula produces tall flowering stalks bearing clusters of red flowers, marking its reproductive stage. After pollination, potentially facilitated by insects, the flowers form seed pods that eventually dry out and release seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. The auricula may enter a period of dormancy during hot or dry conditions, conserving energy for the next growing season. Perennials like the Auricula 'Red Gauntlet' will repeat this life cycle for several years, growing larger and producing more flowers with each successive season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method for propagating Primula auricula 'Red Gauntlet', also known as Auricula, is by division. This is best done after the plant has flowered and is going into its dormant period, which typically occurs in late spring or early summer. For division, carefully lift the plant from the soil and gently separate the offsets from the parent plant, ensuring that each division has a section of roots attached. Replant the divisions promptly, ideally at the same depth they were growing originally, and water them to help establish the roots. It's important to keep the divisions well-watered but not waterlogged, as this can cause rot. Following these steps, the divisions should take root and grow into healthy, flowering plants by the following season.
