Overview

Primula auricula 'Geordie' (Au/A) is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Primula, part of the Primulaceae family, with semi-evergreen foliage. Primula auricula 'Geordie' (Au/A) grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4, H5, H6, H7. Suggested uses include borders, containers, woodland gardens, rock gardens, bedding, wildflower meadows, wildlife gardens, coastal gardens and cottage gardens.

About

Primula auricula, often known as auricula, mountain cowslip or bear's ear, is a species of flowering plant in the family Primulaceae, that grows on basic rocks in the mountain ranges of central Europe, including the western Alps, Jura Mountains, the Vosges, the Black Forest and the Tatra Mountains.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Primula

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H4, H5, H6, H7

Plant details

Primula auricula 'Geordie' (Au/A) size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Clump-forming
Foliage
Semi-evergreen
Suggested uses
Borders, Containers, Woodland gardens, Rock gardens, Bedding, Wildflower meadows, Wildlife gardens, Coastal gardens, Cottage gardens

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Primula auricula 'Geordie' (Au/A)

Propagation
Seed, Root basal cuttings
Pest resistance
Aphids, Vine weevil, Slugs, Leaf and bud eelworms, Leaf-mining flies, Glasshouse red spider mite
Disease resistance
Leaf spot, Grey moulds

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Primula auricula 'Geordie' (Au/A)?

Primula auricula 'Geordie' (Au/A) prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Primula auricula 'Geordie' (Au/A) need?

Primula auricula 'Geordie' (Au/A) is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

Is Primula auricula 'Geordie' (Au/A) hardy in the UK?

Primula auricula 'Geordie' (Au/A) has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.

How do I propagate Primula auricula 'Geordie' (Au/A)?

Seed, Root basal cuttings.

More in the Primula genus

Browse all Primula