Primula auricula
Family: Primulaceae
What it is like
Primula auricula is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in) by 0.2 m (0ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from April to May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.2
Where it is found
Rock crevices or wet alpine grassland.
Europe - Alps and Carpathian mountains.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 1
The leaves are used as a remedy for coughs. Used in the treatment of headaches.
Antitussive: Prevents or relieves coughing.
Other
Rating:
When growing in the right conditions this species and its cultivars make a good ground cover. They are best spaced about 30cm apart each way.
Ground cover: Ground Cover
Scented Plants: Plants noted for their scent
How it is grown
Prefers a freely-draining moderately fertile humus-rich sandy loam. Prefers an alkaline soil. Grows well in heavy clay soils. Dislikes dry soils. Requires some shelter from the summer sun. Grows well in the shade of a north wall but does not like growing under trees. A very ornamental and polymorphic species. The flowers are sweetly honey-scented.
Propagating it: Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a cold frame. Sow stored seed in early spring in a cold frame. Germination is inhibited by temperatures above 20°c. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Division in autumn.
Best place to grow: Ground Cover; Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 3-7
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade
Moisture: Moist