Scientific Name
Primula auricula L.
Common Name(s)
Auricula, Auricula Primrose, Mountain Cowslip, Bear's Ear
Synonym(s)
Aretia auriculata, Auricula hortensis, Auricula lutea, Auricula-ursi auricula, Primula alpina, Primula lutea
Scientific Classification
Family: Primulaceae
Subfamily: Primuloideae
Genus: Primula
Flower
Color: Yellow
Bloom Time: Late winter or early spring
Description
Primula auricula is an evergreen perennial that grows up to 8 inches (20 cm) tall and up to 10 inches (25 cm) wide. Leaves are obovate and stalkless, with a cartilaginous edge, all growing in a basal rosette and sometimes covered in a mealy white bloom.
The yellow flowers grow in clusters on up to 8 inches (20 cm) long stalks.
How to Grow and Care
Potted indoor Primulas are a delightful way to usher out winter or welcome in the spring. They are available in many striking colors, forming a mass of flowers. Most people prefer the taller, upright delicate Primulas indoors, but even a pot of common Primula is a nice addition. Extend the flowering season by pinching off dying buds. Then, after the plant has done blooming, consider moving it outside. While inside, do not overwater; wilting even though the plant is getting water is a sign of root rot.
It's unlikely you'll be repotting your potted Primula. If you do, make sure not to bury them too deep—burying too deep is a prime reason Primulas succumb. Bury the plants, so the top of the root ball is slightly elevated above the level of the surrounding soil. Never pile soil up around the stem of a flowering plant.
They are propagated from seeds, which are sown directly in soil or potting media. Most pots of indoor Primula are purchased as flowering plants, destined to be set atop a desk, sill, or table until they're done flowering.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Primula.
Origin
This species is native to central Europe, including the western Alps, the Jura Mountains, the Vosges, the Black Forest, and the Tatra Mountains.
Links
- Back to genus Primula
- Plantpedia: Browse flowering plants by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, or Origin
Photo Gallery
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