Cauliflower ear is the result of a blood clot (auricular hematoma) caused by a hard impact to the ear. The impact causes the skin to separate from the cartilage giving the ear its shape, and the gap swells up with blood. If left untreated, the blood will thicken and new fibrous tissue will begin to form. After just 7-10 days, the auricular hematoma will harden into a permanently swollen shape resembling a cauliflower or potato.