Native to South Africa, Streptocarpus – or Cape primrose – are lovely house plants that are grown for their fresh green leaves and pretty, primrose-like flowers in the UK. The flowers come in a wide range of colours, from white to pink, blues and purples, lemon yellow and red, and they are often bi-coloured. They bloom from spring though to autumn, offering a long-lasting display. Plants in the ‘Crystal’ series flower for even longer, and may even flower all year.
Seven of the best flowering house plants to growStreptocarpus are easy to grow as long as a few key rules are followed, and even easier to propagate.
Although having primrose-like leaves, Streptocarpus are not related to primroses. They belong to the Gesneriad family, which also includes African violets (Saintpaulias), and they are cared for in a similar way.
How to grow streptocarpusThe key to growing Streptocarpus is to find a bright window sill away from direct sunlight, and to avoid over-watering. Streptocarpus are native to wooded mountain areas and ravines in South Africa, so thrive in dappled shade, a humid atmosphere and free-draining soils.
In this short video guide, the experts at Dibleys Nurseries share their top tips for growing streptocarpus, including how to water them and how to keep them flowering.
Streptocarpus: jump links Planting streptocarpus Caring for streptocarpus Propagating streptocarpus Growing streptocarpus: problem-solving Buying streptocarpus Best streptocarpus to grow Where to grow streptocarpusGrow Streptocarpus in a warm, bright spot, out of hot, direct sun – an east or west facing windowsill is ideal. In winter, move to a south facing spot for maximum light.
Streptocarpus need humidity, so a bathroom or kitchen is ideal.
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