Streptocarpus Ladyslippers Blue with White Centre

Also known as Cape Primrose, Streptocarpus Ladyslippers Blue with White Centre is a magnificent flowering plant that performs beautifully as ground cover in cool, frost-free environments and also thrives indoors as a striking houseplant. Similar in care to African Violets, but generally less demanding, Streptocarpus offers a stunning display of large, tubular blooms that appear over many months of the year. The flowers are an enchanting mauve to blue shade, richly contrasted by a creamy white throat that creates a dramatic focal point. With its compact growth habit, lush green foliage, and prolonged flowering season, this hybrid is perfect for brightening up shady garden beds, patios, or indoor spaces with indirect light. Easy to grow and rewarding, it’s an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned plant lovers.

Streptocarpus are relatively easy to grow and maintain, so long as a few rules are adhered to. These plants do not cope with waterlogged soil at any time so perfect drainage is a must. Use a potting mix for African Violets, or adapt a regular potting mix by adding perlite and/or vermiculite to increase drainage porperties of the soil. Streptocarpus like to be kept reasonably dry during the cooler months when they are almost dormant. During the warmer months the soil must be allowed to dry out a little between watering, so make sure you check the soil before you routinely water and only do it based on what your fingers tell you. Generally speaking once a week in the warmer months is adequate but let your fingers be the guide. Do not allow the pot to sit in a saucer of water as this is sure to cause root rot, one of the most common ailments with these plants. Bright indirect light is the best spot for these plants. If there is too much direct light the delicate leaves will scorch so a shaded sheltered position is best. Protect plants from cold drafts in the cooler months and ensure they are not kept in an overheated room in Winter. The ideal temperature for optimum growth is between 18-27 degrees. Regular fertilising with a half strength liquid fertiliser during the warmer months will promote a long flowering season with masses of beautiful flowers.