Contents
Description
The Streptocarpus Purple Panda is a stunning flowering plant that belongs to the Gesneriaceae family. It is a hybrid plant that was first introduced in 2012 by hybridizer Jeff Jackson. The plant has large purple flowers that bloom on long stems, making it a popular addition to indoor and outdoor gardens.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Gesneriaceae |
| Genus | Streptocarpus |
Appearance
The Streptocarpus Purple Panda has large, striking purple flowers that bloom on long stems. The petals of the flowers are velvety and have a slightly curved shape. The leaves are dark green and have a slightly hairy texture. The plant can grow up to 12 inches in height and 18 inches in width, making it a relatively compact plant that can fit on a windowsill or in a small pot.
Care Guide
The Streptocarpus Purple Panda is a relatively low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for taking care of this beautiful plant:
Water: The plant prefers to be watered regularly but not excessively. The soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilization: The plant should be fertilized every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer).
Soil: The plant prefers a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 10-11, but can be grown indoors in cooler climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Streptocarpus Purple Panda is generally a healthy plant, but it can be susceptible to the following pests and diseases:
Thrips: These tiny insects can damage the flowers and leaves of the plant. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider mites: These tiny insects can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Root rot: Overwatering or poorly-draining soil can cause the roots of the plant to rot. The plant should be repotted in fresh soil and watered less frequently.
Habitat
The Streptocarpus Purple Panda is native to South Africa, where it grows in the understory of forests and on rocky outcrops. It prefers warm, humid conditions and can be grown both indoors and outdoors.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Streptocarpus Purple Panda be grown outdoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown outdoors in warm, humid conditions.
Q: How often should the plant be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer).
Q: Can the plant tolerate direct sunlight?
A: The plant prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight.
Q: How tall can the plant grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 12 inches in height and 18 inches in width.
Related Plants
- Streptocarpus ‘Harlequin Blue’
- Streptocarpus ‘Harlequin Pink’
- Streptocarpus ‘Harlequin White’
- Streptocarpus ‘Harlequin Wine Red’
References
- “Streptocarpus Purple Panda”. Missouri Botanical Garden.
- “Streptocarpus Purple Panda”. Plant Delights Nursery.
- “Streptocarpus Purple Panda – Jeff Jackson, 2012”. Gesneriad Reference Web.
