Auricula 'Taffeta' Primula auricula 'Taffeta' (Au/s)

Water

The Bear's Ear should be watered regularly, keeping the soil slightly moist but not soggy. It is typically best to water this plant once every week with about 16 ounces of water. During the active growing season, in spring and summer, you might need to increase the frequency to twice a week depending on the temperature and humidity. In the winter months, reduce watering to every other week as the plant enters a dormancy period. Always check the top inch of soil for dryness before watering to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.

Light

Bear’s Ear prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It should be placed in a spot where it will receive light but be shielded from the intense direct rays of the sun, making a north-facing or east-facing window ideal. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while too little light may cause the plant to become leggy and reduce flowering.

Temperature

Bear's Ear thrives best in cool temperatures between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit but can tolerate a range from 40 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid placing the plant near heat sources or in locations with drastic temperature changes. The ideal temperature will encourage lush foliage growth and optimal flowering.

Pruning

Pruning Bear's Ear is essential for removing dead or fading flowers to promote new blooms and maintain a tidy appearance. Pruning should be done immediately after the plant finishes flowering, typically in late spring or early summer. Gently pinch off spent flowers and any damaged or yellowing leaves. Regular pruning also helps to prevent disease by improving air circulation around the plant.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Auricula Primrose 'Taffeta' thrives best in a well-draining soil mix comprising one part loam, one part peat-free compost, and one part leaf mold or grit, with a preferred pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.

Repotting

Auricula Primrose 'Taffeta' should be repotted every year or two, ideally in late summer after flowering or in early fall to ensure healthy growth and blooming.

Humidity & Misting

Auricula Primrose 'Taffeta' prefers moderate humidity levels, around 50-60%, avoiding excess moisture which can lead to fungal diseases.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light with cool temps.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial shade; protect from harsh elements.

• Hardiness zone

  4-8 USDA

Life cycle

Primula auricula 'Taffeta', commonly known as Auricula, begins its life as a seed sown in well-drained, moist soil, typically in late winter or early spring. Upon germination, which may take a few weeks, the seedlings emerge, developing into rosettes of green, sometimes farinose (mealy) leaves. As the plant matures during the spring, flower stalks arise from the center of the rosette, bearing clusters of showy, often fragrant flowers in a wide range of colors, from deeply saturated to pastel hues, often with a contrasting central eye. After flowering, which occurs in mid to late spring, the plant sets seed, completing the reproductive cycle; the seeds can be collected for propagation or left to self-sow. Throughout the summer, the Auricula continues to grow vegetatively, with some plants producing offsets that can be divided and replanted to propagate new individuals. As a perennial, the Auricula retreats into dormancy in autumn and winter, withdrawing energy into its roots to survive cold temperatures, resuming growth when conditions become favorable in the following spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• Propogation: Primula auricula 'Taffeta', commonly known as Auricula Primrose, is generally propagated by division. The best time to divide the plant is in the early spring or late summer after the flowering period has ended. To propagate by division, carefully lift the plant from the ground and gently separate the offsets from the parent plant with your hands or a sharp knife. Each offset should have a portion of the root attached. Replant the divided sections at the same depth they were growing at before and water well. This method encourages healthy growth and rejuvenates older clumps, ensuring the longevity and vigor of the Auricula Primrose in the garden.