I bought my first Primula auricula back in 2010. It’s dead now, a casualty of the move. I’ve successfully grown other primulas since, but it’s the diminutive, silvery auriculas that really captivate me.
I’ve been longing to try another, this time planted in terra firma now that I have a better growing conditions. Unfortunately, they’re not particularly easy to come by. These are not the fluffy primulas that are displayed in front of corner shops in the early spring (I like those, too.). I bought the last auricula from Harvey Wrightman of Wrightman Alpines at a members only early spring sale put on by the Ontario Rock Garden and Hardy Plant Society so I asked my friend Barry if he could pick one or two up for me. I trust his taste in these sorts of things and he did not disappoint with this velvety soft, frilly black double flower. Isn’t it wonderful? I love the spot of white that just peeks out from deep inside the frills.
I can’t wait to get it planted and find out what happens next. Will I be able to keep this one alive? A new challenge awaits.
Very nice pictures. I found your blog today. It was recommended in a Dutch magazine :-) And I am a new follower now.
I’ve been really into those deep dark colors.. the depth of color is amazing.
I love that even though in many peoples’ eyes (including mine), you are an expert (or at least much more an expert than us), you still have plants that die and you blog about that! Thanks for being so honest! And that flower is quite pretty. :)
We all kill plants; there’s no shame in it. It’s a normal part of the gardening experience no matter how experienced you are!
Wow, they are really pretty. I hadn’t heard of them before, but now I am going to have to see if they are available in my area.
They are gorgeous! Thanks so much for all your great posts! You made my so interested about Hahms Gelbe Tomate that I ordered it yesterday. Hope I will be able to grow one in a pot this year. I am from Iowa and so I am hoping we will have a nice long summer and fall and I will have plenty of time for her to grow.
I am from Germany and moved here 6 years ago and I loved yellow tomatoes that grew in my sisters boyfriends garden soo much but the ones i grew here so far were NOT yummy at all. So needless to say.. I AM SUPER EXCITED for the seed to arrive! :)
Argh. Your posts keep inspiring me to try growing plants purely for the pretty factor, and then I find out they aren’t hardy in zone 2B. Do I dare check the hardiness of this one? Ah well, perhaps I’ll just have to be satisfied with your gorgeous pictures for the time being.
I have just started to get into Auriculas and there is something very special about them. I understand how people can get obsessed by them and I may have to watch myself ! The colour of ‘Shalford’s Double’ is fantastic. So rich. I may have to look out for one…or two …