Bear's ear auricula Primula auricula 'Snowstorm' (Au/s)
ABOUT
Primula auricula 'Snowstorm' is known more commonly as bear's ear. This eye-catching plant features lush, velvety, rounded leaves with a unique shade of grey-green. The leaves form a low-growing rosette, providing a dense foliage base for the flowers. Rising above these leaves are sturdy stems that carry the mesmerizing flowers. The blooms themselves are truly show-stopping, presenting a generous clustering of trumpet-shaped flowers that are predominantly white, hence the name 'Snowstorm'. These white flowers often display a delicate hint of yellow at the center, which appears almost like a soft glow at the heart of each flower. The petal edges may exhibit a slight frill, adding to the intricate detail and charm of the plant. Between the bold, attractive foliage and the contrasting, pure white flowers with their sunny centers, bear's ear cultivar 'Snowstorm' stands out with its simple yet elegant appearance that catches the eye and creates a serene, snow-like impression in any garden setting.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Auricula, Bear's Ear, Mountain Cowslip.
Common names
Primula auricula 'Snowstorm'.
ToxicityTo humans
Auricula plants are not commonly known to be toxic to humans. Touching them can sometimes cause skin irritation due to the presence of Primin, a type of allergenic compound found in the plant’s sap. However, ingesting parts of the plant is not typically associated with serious poisoning. If consumed in large amounts, it might upset the stomach, leading to nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, although such cases are rare.
To pets
The auricula is generally considered to be non-toxic to pets. It is not listed as a poisonous plant to dogs, cats, or other animals. Ingestion may still cause mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, but is not expected to cause severe poisoning. As with any non-food plant, it is still wise to prevent pets from ingesting it to avoid any potential stomach discomfort.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
6 inches (15 cm)
Spread
6 inches (15 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds visual interest to gardens with its striking white flowers and vibrant green foliage.
- Auricula Theatre Tradition: Suitable for the traditional English display method where plants are showcased in unique tiered theatres.
- Show Plant: Often used in competition and prized for its perfect rosettes of leaves and striking blooms.
- Compact Growth: Ideal for small gardens or containers due to its modest size.
- Spring Blossoms: Provides early spring blooms that can cheer up post-winter gardens.
- Bee-Friendly: Attracts bees and other pollinators, supporting local ecosystems.
- Ease of Care: Known for being low-maintenance once established in the right growing conditions.
- Hardy Nature: Resistant to cold temperatures, making it a suitable plant for a variety of climates.
- Breeding Cultivar: Offers opportunity for plant enthusiasts to breed new variants due to its genetic diversity.
- Alpine Heritage: Carries the tradition of alpine plants, suitable for rockeries and alpine gardens.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The leaves of the auricula can be used in creating unique botanical prints on paper or fabric by pressing and transferring the pigments and patterns of the leaves onto the material.
- As a natural dye, the pigments found in auriculas can be used to color textiles and yarns, providing a range of colors from greens to yellows depending on the mordant used.
- Auriculas can be incorporated into edible flower arrangements or as garnish on dishes, adding a vibrant touch of color to culinary presentations.
- The flowers can be crystallized with sugar and used as an elegant decoration for cakes and desserts.
- In small-scale home landscaping, auriculas can be used to create intricate living walls or vertical gardens, benefiting from their compact growth habit.
- Dried auricula flowers can be used in potpourri mixes to add a subtle fragrance and a touch of color to a room.
- Used in sensory gardens, auriculas provide a tactile experience with their unique, velvety foliage.
- Auriculas can be used as a natural confetti for celebrations like weddings, providing an environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic confetti.
- In artistic hobbies, such as scrapbooking or decoupage, pressed auricula flowers can add a botanical element to the crafts.
- Some enthusiasts use auriculas in photography, as their striking colors and shapes can provide the perfect subject for macro and still-life photography.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Auricula is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Plant Symbolism- Precision: Primula auricula varieties, or simply auriculas, are known for their exacting standards in terms of growth, suggesting a symbol of precision and meticulousness.
- Unique Beauty: The 'Snowstorm' cultivar, with its distinct appearance, represents uniqueness and a stand-out beauty in the world of plants.
- Patience: As a plant that may take care to flourish, auriculas symbolize patience and the rewards of diligent attention.
- Boldness: The striking colors of auriculas, including those of 'Snowstorm', can stand for boldness and courage in expressing one's true colors.
WaterThe Bear's Ear should be watered thoroughly, allowing the soil to become somewhat dry between waterings. When the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, it's time to water again. Generally, watering once a week is a good rule of thumb, but this may vary depending on environmental conditions and the plant's lifecycle. During active growth in the spring and summer, the Bear's Ear may require more frequent watering, so it's essential to check the soil moisture regularly. Use enough water to wet the root zone, which might amount to around 16-32 ounces depending on the size of the plant and pot.
LightThe Bear's Ear prefers bright, indirect light or partial shade. Avoid direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day as it can scorch the leaves. A north-facing window or a spot that receives filtered sunlight is ideal for this plant. If grown outdoors, dappled shade under a tree or a similarly protected spot is suitable for the Bear's Ear.
TemperatureThe Bear's Ear thrives in cool to moderate temperatures, ideally between 50°F and 75°F. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 40°F, but should not be exposed to frost. Avoid placing the Bear's Ear near heat sources or in locations that experience extreme temperature fluctuations.
PruningPruning the Bear's Ear helps maintain its shape and encourages healthy growth. Deadhead spent flowers to stimulate new blooms and remove dead or yellowing leaves to keep the plant tidy. Light pruning is best done after the main bloom period in spring. Pruning can be performed as needed throughout the growing season to remove occasional dead foliage or spent flowers.
CleaningAs needed
SoilAuricula Primrose (Primula auricula 'Snowstorm') thrives in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH range of slightly acidic to neutral, ideally between 6.0 and 7.0. A mix with equal parts loam, peat, and perlite or grit would be suitable to ensure adequate drainage and fertility. Regularly enrich the soil with organic matter to maintain its quality.
RepottingAuricula Primrose should be repotted every one to two years to refresh the soil and prevent it from becoming compacted. The best time for repotting is in the fall after the blooming season or in early spring before new growth begins.
Humidity & MistingAuricula Primrose prefers a more moderate humidity level, avoiding excessively dry or overly humid conditions. Aim for a humidity range of 50-60%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep Auricula Primrose in bright light, away from direct sun.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade with moist, well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleThe common name for Primula auricula 'Snowstorm' is "Snowstorm Auricula." The plant begins its life cycle as a seed, typically sown in late winter or early spring under cover to protect from frost. Germination occurs over several weeks, developing into a seedling with characteristic foliage. As temperatures warm, the plant enters a vegetative growth stage where it forms a basal rosette of leaves. Come spring, the Snowstorm Auricula progresses into its reproductive phase, producing tall stems with clusters of ornate, fragrant flowers, which are usually yellow-centered with white or cream petals, attracting pollinators. After blooming, the plant sets seed, and as the colder weather returns, it enters a period of dormancy, conserving energy to repeat the cycle again the following year.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to summer
Propogation: Primula auricula 'Snowstorm', commonly referred to as Auricula Primrose, is typically propagated through division. This method is most popular due to its simplicity and effectiveness. The best time to carry out division is in the late summer or early fall, after the flowering period has finished and before the plant enters its winter dormancy phase. To propagate the Auricula Primrose by division, carefully dig up the plant and gently separate the clumps into smaller sections, making sure each section has a portion of the root system attached. These sections can then be immediately replanted into well-draining soil at the same depth they were growing previously, spaced about 6 inches (approximately 15 centimeters) apart to allow ample room for growth. Water the new divisions thoroughly to establish them in their new locations. Division not only helps to proliferate the plant but also invigorates older clumps that may have become woody or less vigorous over time.
