Origin
Streptocarpus atroviolaceus Engl. is a species of flowering plant native to Tanzania, East Africa. It is a member of the Gesneriaceae family, which also includes African violets.
Common Names
Streptocarpus atroviolaceus Engl. is commonly known as the Purple African Violet or Cape Primrose. It is also called the "twinspurs" because the two upper petals of the flower are elongated and curled like spurs which are about half the length of the corolla and joined together at the top into a hood.
Uses
The Purple African Violet is a popular houseplant due to its attractive flowers and ease of care. It can be grown in a pot or basket and prefers a setting with bright but not direct sunlight. It is also known for its healing properties, with the leaves and flowers being used by traditional healers to treat coughs, flu, and respiratory problems.
General Appearance
Streptocarpus atroviolaceus Engl. is a small perennial herb that reaches a height of about 20cm. It has a thick, succulent stem that is green when young and gradually turns brown as it matures. The leaves are strap-shaped with a slightly wavy edge and grow from the base of the stem, forming a rosette. The flowers are borne on long stalks that rise from the center of the rosette and are a deep shade of purple with white throats. They have five petals and two long, curled spurs that give the flower its distinct shape.
Light Requirements
Streptocarpus atroviolaceus Engl. thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. This plant cannot withstand direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves. However, inadequate light can cause the plant to produce fewer flowers or even no blooms. Therefore, it is recommended to keep the plant near a window that receives bright but filtered light.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Streptocarpus atroviolaceus is between 18°C to 24°C (65°F to 75°F). Avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 15°C (59°F) and above 29°C (85°F) as extreme temperatures can cause the plant to wilt or even die. Ensure that the temperature around the plant remains consistent, and avoid exposing the plant to cold drafts.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-draining soil with ample organic matter. A combination of peat moss and perlite or sand is ideal for potting this plant. Ensure that the soil pH remains slightly acidic, between 5.5 to 6.5, for healthy growth. Water the plant only when the top 1 inch of soil is dry to the touch, as overwatering leads to root rot.
Cultivation
Streptocarpus atroviolaceus Engl., also known as the Cape Primrose, is a popular houseplant due to its beautiful flowers and easy cultivation. It prefers a well-draining, moist soil mix and a bright but shaded location. It can be grown in pots or hanging baskets and prefers temperatures between 60-75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Watering Needs
The Cape Primrose requires moderate watering, with the soil being moist but not saturated. Overwatering can lead to root rot, and underwatering can cause the plant to wilt. As a general guideline, water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. It's important to use room temperature water, as cold water can shock the plant.
Fertilization
To encourage flowering and growth, fertilizer should be applied every 2-3 weeks during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. When applying fertilizer, it's important to dilute it to half the recommended strength as too much fertilizer can damage the plant.
Pruning
The Cape Primrose benefits from occasional pruning to keep it in shape and promote bushier growth. Deadheading the spent blooms can encourage the plant to produce more flowers. Additionally, removing any brown or yellow leaves can help prevent disease and improve the plant's appearance. Use a clean pair of pruning shears to avoid damaging the stem or introducing disease to the plant.
Propagation of Streptocarpus atroviolaceus Engl.
Streptocarpus atroviolaceus Engl. commonly known as Cape Primrose is an attractive plant with beautiful violet flowers. It is a popular indoor ornamental plant and can be propagated by several methods, including leaf cuttings, stem cuttings, and division.
Propagation by Leaf Cuttings
Propagation of Streptocarpus atroviolaceus through leaf cuttings is an easy and effective method. It can lead to faster and healthier growth of the plant and can be done throughout the year. The base of the leaf and some petiole should be removed, and the remaining leaf should be inserted into the propagating mix with hormone powder to stimulate root growth. It should be kept in a warm and humid place and in a well-lit area but not in direct sunlight.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Stem cutting propagation is another method that can be used to propagate Streptocarpus atroviolaceus. It involves removing a healthy branch of the plant and reducing its length to around 7 to 10 centimeters. The cutting should then be planted in a rooting hormone and inserted into a pot of propagating mixed soil. This should be placed in a warm, humid area until roots have formed, after which it can be transplanted into a larger pot, and eventually, into its final location.
Propagation by Division
The division method involves separating the plant clumps in a way that a healthy specimen is created. It is typically done when the plant has grown too big for its current pot. A sterilized saw or sharp knife should be used to separate the healthy clumps, ensuring that the roots and leaves are left intact. The separated plant clumps should then be planted in different pots, filled with well-draining and nutrient-rich soil.
These are some of the methods that can be used to propagate Streptocarpus atroviolaceus. They are simple, efficient, and can yield beautiful and healthy plants.
Disease Management
Streptocarpus atroviolaceus Engl. can be affected by several diseases that can affect its growth, development and productivity. The common diseases that might affect the plant include:
- Botrytis blight: This disease is caused by Botrytis cinerea and affects the leaves, flowers, and stems of the plant, resulting in rot, discoloration, and shriveling. To manage Botrytis blight, it is essential to keep the plant dry and improve air circulation around it by spacing the plants appropriately. Fungicides can also be used, especially during wet or humid weather conditions.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes spots on the leaves, which eventually turn yellow and fall off. To manage leaf spot, it is essential to avoid watering the leaves and keep the soil evenly moist. Fungicides can also be used to control the disease.
- Crown rot: This disease is caused by fungal pathogens such as Rhizoctonia and Phytophthora. It causes the plant's crown to turn brown and rot, leading to plant death. The best disease management approach is to remove and destroy affected plants. To prevent the disease from spreading, one can also avoid overwatering and ensure good drainage.
Pest Management
Streptocarpus atroviolaceus Engl. can also be affected by pests, which can damage the leaves, flowers, and roots of the plant. The common pests that might affect the plant include:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects feed on the plant's sap, causing it to wilt and become stunted. To manage aphids, one can use insecticidal soap or neem oil, which are effective in controlling the pests.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests cause stippling on the leaves, which eventually turn yellow and fall off. To manage spider mites, one can use insecticidal soap or neem oil and ensure that the plant is kept moist to prevent the pests from thriving.
- Thrips: These tiny insects feed on the leaves, causing them to turn pale and silver. To manage thrips, one can use insecticidal soap or neem oil and prune affected leaves.
