Streptocarpus are originally form South Africa and are sometimes referred to as the ‘Cape Primrose’. Although the common purple flowering varieties with the long tubular flowers are the hardiest. Many of the new cultivars are more colourful.
They are usually grown in hanging baskets or in pots, however in the right conditions they have been used as a ground cover plant. Alway grown in a filtered shade position with moist but also a well drained soil that mimics the natural habitat of Streptocarpus Species.
Streptocarpus saxorum is the species also known as the ‘False African Violet’.
In cooler climates Streptocarpus are usually grown indoors, however in warmer climates, sub tropical to tropical, they can be grown outdoors, especially near the coast where temperatures at night do not drop so much.
How To Grow Streptocarpus – Basic Care
Streptocarpus grow well in similar conditions to that of African Violets however they are probably a little easier. They require a moist soil, however not a wet one. Let them dry out one in while.
- Light – Indirect or good filtered light is essential. Direct sun can cause scorching of the foliage
- Watering – The growing medium needs to dry out a little between watering. Wet soggy soils will lead to root rot and fungal diseases. Try once a week during summer, once every 3 weeks in winter. Check the soil before watering and do not allow the pots to sit in saucers of water.
- Fertiliser – Fertiliser is important for good flower growth. Commence fertilising in early spring using a liquid seaweed fertiliser and continue every 2 weeks until autumn when flowering ends.
- Repotting
Best reputed every 6 months spring and late summer
Use a shallow container
Use a pot that gives the plant a little room to grow, however not much - Potting Mix
Free draining and if you are using a wicking pot, then a really good free draining mix.
4 parts peat
1 perlite
1 vermiculiteWhen repotting remove the old flower stems and the woody stem below it
Water after repotting and use a room temperature water.
General Maintenance
These are a low maintenance once established they flower freely from the spring through to autumn. Often grown in the pots used for African Violets with the ‘Wick’ watering system.
- Old foliage can be removed as needed.
- Remember to divide as they fill the pot to avoid overcrowding.
- Fertilize using a weak seaweed based solution.
- Allow for good air circulation
- Protect from snails and slugs
- Propagate from leaf cuttings
Buying Streptocarpus
Available for sale from the following Nurseries
470 Monbulk-Silvan Road Monbulk VIC 3793
"Guaranteed mail order flowering bulbs, perennials, roses, trees, landscaping plants, garden accessories and community fundraising Austra lia-wide."
www.gardenexpress.com.au
It is also worth contacting your local African Violet and Strepocarpus Society. Or visit one of their shows where plants are often offered for sale.
Streptocarpus Species
- S. andohahelensis
- S. baudertii
- S. beampingaratrensis
- S. bolusii
- S. caeruleus
- S. candidus
- S. caulescens
- S. compressus
- S. confusus
- S. cooksonii
- S. cooperii
- S. cyanandrus
- S. cyaneus
- S. daviesii
- S. denticulatus
- S. dunnii plant
- S. eylesii
- S. fanninae
- S. fasciatus
- S. fenestra-dei
- S. floribundus
- S. formosus
- S. galpinii
- S. gardenii
- S. goetzii
- S. grandis
- S. glandulosissimus
- S. haygarthii
- S. holstii
- S. inflatus
- S. johannis
- S. kentaniensis
- S. kirkii
- S. lilliputana
- S. meyeri
- S. michelmorei
- S. micranthus
- S. modestus
- S. molweniensis
- S. montigena
- S. nobilis
- S. pallidiflorus
- S. papangae
- S. pentherianus
- S. pole-evansii
- S. polyanthus
- S. porphyrostachys
- S. primulifolius
- S. prolixus
- S. pumilus
- S. pusillus
S. rexii - S. roseoalbus
- S. saxorum
- S. silvaticus
- S. stomandrus
- S. thysanotus
- S. trebeculatus
- S. vandeleurii
- S. wendlandii
- S. wilmsii