Although widespread in the African and Asian tropics and subtropics, most of the cultivated plants in this African violet family (Gesneriaceae) genus of around 130 species of annuals and perennials are natives of southern Africa. They are a very diverse group, ranging from tiny rosette-forming plants to others that produce just a single huge leaf. But despite this variation of form they share some features, especially among their flowers. The leaves are velvety, heavily veined, and slightly crinkled. The flowers are long-tubed, primroselike, and usually have 5 petals; they occur in heads on short upright stems. The genus name is of Greek origin, derived from streptos (twisted) and karpos (a fruit), referring to the unusual form of the spirally twisted fruits.
CULTIVATION
Cold tolerance varies, though none withstand more than the lightest frost. Plant in a bright but not sunny position that is warm and draft-free. The soil should be fertile, moist, humus-rich, and well-drained. Propagate by division, from leaf-petiole cuttings, or from seed.
Top Tip
Treat Streptocarpus plants similarly to Saintpaulia when grown indoors. Use an African violet potting mix and place in a bright but not too sunny spot.
CULTIVATION
Cold tolerance varies, though none withstand more than the lightest frost. Plant in a bright but not sunny position that is warm and draft-free. The soil should be fertile, moist, humus-rich, and well-drained. Propagate by division, from leaf-petiole cuttings, or from seed.
Top Tip
Treat Streptocarpus plants similarly to Saintpaulia when grown indoors. Use an African violet potting mix and place in a bright but not too sunny spot.
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