Species Cape primrose

Cape primrose

Streptocarpus (group)

Cape primrose (Streptocarpus (group)) is a striking group of hybrid primroses native to southern and eastern Africa. It has a multitude of colorful, rich flowers on long stems that resemble orchids. The oval-shaped leaves are hairy, textured, and medium to dark green in color. It is a popular houseplant and thrives in soil that is slightly moist and well-drained. It prefers indirect sunlight but will tolerate low to medium light. Pruning the spent flowers regularly will promote new bloom cycles. Due to its easy-care requirements, Cape primrose is an ideal plant for novice gardeners.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Leaf Cutting,Stem Propagation,Division,Seed Propagation,Air Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

10 - 11

Flowers:

Blue-purple, deep pink, white Flowers

Sun:

part shade,part sun/part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,red,yellow,purple,pink,white

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Indoors:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Due to the tropical climate of the native habitat of the Cape primrose, frequent watering is needed in order to keep the soil slightly moist. The top inch of soil should be dry before the next watering. Watering should be done with lukewarm water in the morning about once every 3-4 days during the summer, and every 5-6 days during the winter. The Cape primrose prefers moist soil, but too much water can cause root rot, so do not forget to keep an eye on the moisture present in the soil.

sunlight

Cape primrose prefer bright indirect or filtered sunlight, meaning that they should be placed near a bright, south-facing window, but not directly in direct sunlight. Depending on the climate, the plants should receive between 4 and 6 hours of sunlight each day, and are ideally kept near an east-facing window where they will benefit from morning sun. In the summer months, they should be kept in a spot where they will receive morning sunlight, but be protected from the harsh afternoon sun.

pruning

Cape primrose plants should be pruned annually in early spring. Pruning helps the plant to stay bushy and shapely while also removing dead or damaged leaves and stems. Rejuvenation pruning, which involves cutting stem tips back to the last set of healthy leaves on the stem, can also be done in early spring. This type of pruning encourages new growth and helps to thicken the overall plant. Be sure to use clean, sharp pruning shears and disinfect them between cuts to prevent the spread of disease.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Streptocarpus (group) also known as Cape primrose typically start flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Streptocarpus (group) also known as Cape primrose typically start flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map