Streptocarpus saxorum

False African Violet

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Taxonomy

Common Names

False African VioletSaxorum StreptocarpusCape Primrose

Context

nativeRegion

Eastern Africa, especially Kenya and Tanzania.

usdaZones

10-11 (grown indoors elsewhere).

companionPlants

African violets (Saintpaulia), Begonias, Peperomias

culturalUses

Popular as a decorative houseplant for its continuous flowering and trailing habit.

Care

LightBright, indirect light; avoid direct sun which can scorch leaves.

WateringKeep soil lightly moist; sensitive to overwatering. Allow top inch of soil to dry before watering again.

SoilWell-draining, light soil; a peat-based African violet mix works well.

FertilizerFeed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2-4 weeks during growth.

HumidityPrefers moderate to high humidity (50-70%); avoid very dry air.

TemperatureThrives in 16-24°C (60-75°F); protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 10°C (50°F).

HabitEvergreen, trailing perennial with soft, hairy stems and small purple-blue flowers.

Mature Size15–30 cm tall and trailing up to 45 cm.

Growth RateModerate growth under good conditions.

BloomingFlowers mainly spring through autumn but can bloom year-round under ideal indoor conditions.

DormancyNo true dormancy; growth slows in winter.

MethodsStem cuttings, Leaf cuttings, Seed

DifficultyEasy to moderate; stem or leaf cuttings root readily.

Best SeasonSpring to early summer for best results.

PruningPinch back to encourage bushiness and remove faded flowers to prolong bloom.

RepottingRepot annually or when rootbound, preferably in spring.

Pests & DiseasesWatch for mealybugs, aphids, spider mites, and root rot from overwatering.

ToxicityNon-toxic to humans and pets.

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