The Scarlet Auricula is a unique flowering plant known for its vibrant color and distinctive appearance. This perennial is admired for its striking blooms, making it a favorite among enthusiasts.
Understanding Scarlet Auricula’s Distinct Features
The scarlet auricula stands out due to its specific physical traits. Its vibrant scarlet color is a primary attraction. Many varieties feature a powdery coating known as ‘farina’ on their leaves and flowers, giving them a unique frosted appearance. This farina is a hallmark of “show auriculas” and must be protected from moisture.
Another defining characteristic is the ‘paste,’ a thick, white, mealy substance that forms a central ring around the flower’s eye. This paste contrasts with the vibrant petals and the darker ‘ground color.’ The ‘edge’ of the petals frames the central eye and paste, completing the flower’s design. These elements, including smooth, unnotched petals, are valued in show auriculas for their precise patterns and proportions.
Cultivating Scarlet Auricula
Successful cultivation of scarlet auriculas requires understanding their environmental needs. Meeting their preferences for light, soil, water, temperature, and nutrients ensures robust growth and vibrant blooms.
Light Requirements
Scarlet auriculas prefer bright, indirect light. Partial shade is ideal, providing sufficient light for growth and flowering while protecting them from harsh sun. Direct midday sun, especially in summer, can cause leaf scorch or faded blooms. A spot with morning sun and afternoon shade is often best.
Ideal Soil and Potting
A well-draining, gritty potting mix is essential for scarlet auriculas to prevent root rot. A common mixture includes equal parts multi-purpose compost, John Innes No. 2 compost, and horticultural grit. Perlite or coarse sand can also improve drainage and aeration. A neutral to slightly alkaline soil is generally preferred. Terracotta pots are often recommended for better airflow and faster soil drying, which helps prevent overwatering. Avoid over-potting, as auriculas prefer somewhat restricted roots.
Watering Techniques
Consistent watering is important for scarlet auriculas, but overwatering is detrimental. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top few inches of soil feel dry, typically once a week during spring and early fall. During hotter periods, increase frequency as needed. Water the soil directly, avoiding leaves or the crown, especially for show varieties with farina, as moisture can wash away the coating and lead to fungal issues.
Temperature and Airflow
Scarlet auriculas tolerate temperatures from 0°C (32°F) to 38°C (100°F). Their ideal range for vigorous growth is 20°C to 35°C (68°F to 95°F). Good air circulation is important to prevent fungal diseases, especially in protected environments like greenhouses. Adequate ventilation keeps plants healthy and reduces rot risk.
Fertilization
During active growth, scarlet auriculas benefit from balanced nutrition. Apply a balanced fertilizer bi-weekly at quarter strength. Alternatively, a high-phosphorus feed can encourage flowering, followed by a potassium feed every two weeks. Reduce or stop fertilization during winter dormancy. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can harm roots and lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms.
Propagating and Repotting Scarlet Auricula
Propagating and repotting scarlet auriculas are key to increasing your collection and maintaining plant health. Propagation can be achieved through offsets, also known as ‘pipings,’ or from seed. Offsets are small plantlets that form around the base of the main plant. The best time to remove and pot these offsets is typically during repotting, after flowering. Ensure an offset has both root and leaf sections for successful establishment.
While offsets produce plants true to the parent, growing from seed allows for genetic variation and new varieties. Sow seeds from November to January, thinly on moist, well-draining compost in a seed tray. Keep seedlings cool with good air circulation. Repot mature plants annually, either after flowering or in late summer to early autumn. This involves carefully removing old compost, inspecting roots, and shortening the main root (‘carrot’) if needed to stimulate new growth. Use fresh, well-draining compost in a clean, appropriately sized pot, ensuring no air pockets.
Protecting Your Scarlet Auricula
Protecting scarlet auriculas from pests, diseases, and adverse weather is important for their longevity. Scarlet auriculas can be susceptible to pests like root aphids and vine weevils. Regular inspection, especially during repotting, helps early detection. If root aphids are present, remove old compost and wash roots with horticultural soap. Diseases like rot, particularly botrytis (grey mold), can occur with poor air circulation or excessive moisture. Promptly removing dead or yellowing leaves prevents fungal spore spread.
Overwintering requires care to shield plants from frost and excessive wetness. Although auriculas are hardy, show varieties with farina are best protected from rain, which can wash off the coating. An unheated greenhouse or cold frame provides shelter from winter wet while allowing cool temperatures. During colder months, reduce watering significantly, keeping compost fairly dry to prevent root rot. Ample ventilation in winter quarters is also important for plant health.