In this unique book established garden writer Patricia Cleveland-Peck tells the story of the auricula's journey from its native Alpine habitat into the gardens of Europe and beyond. She introduces the reader to some of the interesting characters who felt passionately about the auricula and discovers the important social role it played as it was transformed by skilled florists from the simple Bear's Ear to one of today's most refined and exquisite cultivars. Auriculas through the Ages contains sixty full colour plates painted from life over several seasons by leading botanical artist Elisabeth Dowle. In all, eighty-seven varieties are depicted providing a unique record of today's magnificent auriculas.