Auricula Primula auricula 'Remus' (Au/s)

Water

Bear's Ear should be watered regularly but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to avoid waterlogging. In general, water once every week with about 16 ounces of water, but this can vary depending on the humidity and temperature. During the growing season in spring and summer, they may need more frequent watering, especially if they are outside and the weather is hot. In winter, reduce watering as the plant goes into dormancy. It's important to water at the base of the plant, avoiding getting water on the leaves or the center of the rosette to prevent rot.

Light

Bear's Ear thrives best in bright, indirect sunlight. The ideal spot would be near a window that receives plenty of light but is shielded from the direct rays of the sun, especially during the harsh midday hours. An east or west-facing window usually provides the optimal lighting conditions for this plant.

Temperature

Bear's Ear prefers cooler conditions and does well in temperatures between 50°F and 75°F. It is important to protect the plant from extreme temperatures; it should not be exposed to temperatures below 32°F as this could be harmful. Ideally, keeping the plant in a consistently cool environment with good airflow will promote its health and flowering.

Pruning

Prune Bear's Ear to remove dead or fading flowers and encourage a more compact growth habit. Pruning is typically done after the flowering season, which is generally in early summer. By cutting back the spent flower stems and any dead foliage, you'll stimulate new growth and help maintain the plant's attractive appearance.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for Auricula Primrose (the most common name of Primula auricula 'Remus') is a well-draining, loamy, and gritty mix with good organic content. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ideally between 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of one part each of loam, peat, and coarse perlite or grit is recommended to ensure good drainage and aeration.

Repotting

Auricula Primroses should be repotted every year or two to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. It's best to repot them after they have finished flowering in the spring or summer, ensuring they are settled before the cooler weather.

Humidity & Misting

Auricula Primroses thrive in moderate levels of humidity, around 50-60%. They prefer consistent moisture in the air but do not do well in overly wet or misty conditions that can promote fungal diseases.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright light; avoid water on leaves, cool temperatures preferred.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial shade, shelter from rain, and well-draining soil.

• Hardiness zone

  4-8 USDA

Life cycle

The life of the Auricula Primrose (Primula auricula 'Remus') begins with seed germination, which occurs in a moist, well-draining medium under cool conditions, typically in spring or autumn. Following germination, the seedlings develop into rosette-forming juveniles, with their unique foliage appearing as they mature. The plant then enters the vegetative stage, during which it grows and establishes a strong root system. After a period of vegetative growth, the Auricula Primrose reaches maturity and enters the flowering stage, usually in early spring, producing its characteristic, brightly colored flowers that attract pollinators. Once pollination has occurred, the flowers develop into seed pods, and when mature, these pods release seeds, thus completing the cycle. The Auricula Primrose is a perennial plant and this cycle can repeat for several years, with the plant going through periods of dormancy in the winter.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The Primula auricula 'Remus', commonly known as Auricula Primrose, is typically propagated through division, which is the most popular method. The ideal time for this process is after the plant has finished flowering, which usually occurs in late spring to early summer. To propagate by division, carefully remove the plant from its pot or garden location and brush off excess soil to reveal the root structure. Look for natural divisions in the plant and gently separate them, ensuring that each new section has a good amount of roots attached. Replant the divisions into pots filled with a mixture of peat and perlite or a well-draining soil mix to encourage healthy root growth. After replanting, water the divisions thoroughly to help reduce transplant shock and settle them into their new locations. It's essential to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, allowing the newly propagated Auriculas to establish.