Streptocarpus Prolixus, commonly known as the Cape Primrose, is a beautiful and popular indoor plant that belongs to the Gesneriaceae family. The plant is native to South Africa and is widely grown for its stunning flowers that bloom in a range of colors, including shades of pink, purple, blue, and white. It is a relatively easy plant to care for, making it an ideal choice for novice gardeners.
Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Gesneriaceae |
| Genus | Streptocarpus |
Appearance
Streptocarpus Prolixus is a small and compact plant that typically grows to a height of around 12-15 inches. It has a rosette of glossy, dark green leaves that grow up to 6 inches long and 3 inches wide. The leaves are oval-shaped and have a slightly serrated edge. The plant produces a long flowering stem that emerges from the center of the rosette and can hold up to 20 flowers at once.
The flowers of Streptocarpus Prolixus are trumpet-shaped and have five petals that curl back slightly at the edges. They are around 1-2 inches wide and come in a range of colors, including shades of pink, purple, blue, and white. The flowers bloom from late winter to early summer and can last for several weeks.
Care Guide
Water: Streptocarpus Prolixus likes to be kept evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid getting water on the leaves as this can cause water spots to form.
Fertilization: Fertilize Streptocarpus Prolixus every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Reduce fertilization during the winter months.
Soil: Use a well-draining, peat-based soil mix for Streptocarpus Prolixus. The plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5-6.5.
Sunlight: Streptocarpus Prolixus prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as it can cause the leaves to burn.
Hardiness Zones: Streptocarpus Prolixus is not frost-hardy and should be kept indoors in all but the warmest climates. It can tolerate temperatures between 60-80°F.
Common Pests & Diseases
Streptocarpus Prolixus is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil. Spider mites and mealybugs can also be a problem, especially in dry environments.
Habitat
Streptocarpus Prolixus is native to the Western Cape Province of South Africa, where it grows in the shaded understory of forests and along streambanks. It prefers cool temperatures and high humidity, making it well-suited for indoor cultivation.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Streptocarpus Prolixus?
A: Water your Streptocarpus Prolixus when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering as this can cause root rot.
Q: Can I grow Streptocarpus Prolixus outdoors?
A: Streptocarpus Prolixus is not frost-hardy and should be kept indoors in all but the warmest climates.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Streptocarpus Prolixus?
A: Fertilize Streptocarpus Prolixus every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Reduce fertilization during the winter months.
Q: What should I do if my Streptocarpus Prolixus gets spider mites?
A: To get rid of spider mites on your Streptocarpus Prolixus, spray the plant with a solution of water and dish soap, making sure to cover both sides of the leaves. Repeat every few days until the infestation is gone.
Related Plants
- Streptocarpus Rexii
- Streptocarpus Saxorum
- Streptocarpus Picturatus
- Streptocarpus Polymorphus
References
- “Streptocarpus Prolixus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b859.
- “Streptocarpus Prolixus.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/streptocarpus/streptocarpus-cape-primrose.htm.
- “Streptocarpus.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 14 Aug. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Streptocarpus.
