Cape primrose 'Chorus Line' Streptocarpus 'Chorus Line'

Water

Cape Primrose should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, typically once a week, but this can vary depending on environmental conditions. Use room temperature water, and water directly onto the soil to avoid wetting the leaves, which could encourage fungal diseases. It's important to provide thorough watering so that water reaches the entire root system; generally, this means using about 8-16 ounces of water for a standard 6-inch pot. Allow any excess water to drain away to prevent root rot. During the winter, reduce watering frequency as plant growth slows down.

Light

Cape Primrose prefers bright, indirect light to thrive, avoiding direct sunlight that can cause leaf scorch. An ideal spot is near an east-facing window where it will receive some morning sunlight but be protected from the harsh afternoon sun. If positioned in a south- or west-facing window, ensure to provide shade or use a sheer curtain to diffuse the intense light.

Temperature

Cape Primrose enjoys moderate temperatures and should be kept in an environment ranging from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant can survive minimum temperatures of 50 degrees Fahrenheit, but prolonged exposure to cold or temperatures exceeding 80 degrees Fahrenheit can be detrimental. The ideal temperature range for robust growth would be between 65 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Pruning

Cape Primrose should be pruned to remove any yellowed or dead leaves, which encourages healthier growth and mitigates disease risk. Prune spent flower stems at their base to promote more blooms. The best time to prune is in the spring, but it may be done anytime as needed to maintain the plant's appearance. Regularly removing fading flowers will help stimulate continuous blooming throughout the season.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for Cape Primrose should be light, well-draining, and rich in organic matter. A combination of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite in equal parts creates an ideal environment. This plant prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH, typically between 5.5 and 6.5.

Repotting

Cape Primrose should be repotted every 12 to 18 months or when it becomes root-bound. Repotting is best done in spring or early summer to allow the plant to adjust and grow actively in the warmer months.

Humidity & Misting

Cape Primrose thrives in moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 50% and 70%. They will appreciate a humid environment but should not be kept in overly wet conditions which can cause fungal issues.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright, indirect light and keep consistently moist.

• Outdoor

  Shelter from direct sun, ensure drainage, protect from frost.

• Hardiness zone

  10-11 USDA

Life cycle

The life of a Cape Primrose (Streptocarpus 'Chorus Line') begins with the germination of seeds, which, under appropriate conditions of warmth and moisture, sprout to produce small seedlings. These seedlings then establish themselves, growing their first true leaves and developing a small rosette, usually in a shady to partially shaded location. The vegetative growth stage follows, where the plant matures, elongates, and develops a larger rosette of leaves. Upon reaching maturity, the Cape Primrose starts the flowering stage, producing beautiful, trumpet-shaped blossoms that can continue for several months if conditions are favorable. After pollination, if it occurs, the plant may produce seed pods, which, once matured, will release seeds, and the cycle can begin anew. Throughout its life, a Cape Primrose can also undergo vegetative propagation through leaf cuttings, allowing gardeners to clone the plant and produce genetically identical offspring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Streptocarpus 'Chorus Line', commonly known as Cape primrose, can be propagated most easily by leaf cuttings, a technique that can be employed virtually year-round, though it might be especially successful during the warm, vibrant growth period of spring and summer. To propagate by leaf cuttings, one would typically select a healthy, mature leaf and cut it into sections, each with a portion of the main vein. These sections are then inserted into a moist, well-draining potting mix or vermiculite, ensuring the cut edge is buried slightly. It's important to maintain a humid environment, which can be achieved by covering the pot with a plastic bag or placing it in a miniature greenhouse. With the right conditions, including indirect light and stable, moderate temperatures, the leaf sections will develop roots and eventually form small plantlets at the site of the cut in about a month to a half (4-8 weeks). These plantlets can be carefully separated and potted on once they have grown sufficient roots.