Cape Primrose Streptocarpus 'Crystal Ice' (PBR)
ABOUT
Streptocarpus 'Crystal Ice', commonly known as Cape primrose, is a visually striking plant renowned for its beautiful foliage and colorful blossoms. It typically exhibits a basal rosette of elongated, velvety leaves that offer a lush green backdrop for the flowers. The blooms of 'Crystal Ice' are particularly striking; they emerge on slender, upright stalks that rise gracefully above the foliage. Each trumpet-shaped flower is a delicate marvel, featuring a blend of pale blue to white petals that are often decorated with hints of yellow or other subtle color variations at the throat. This cascade of soft hues gives the plant an icy, crystalline appearance, hence its name. The striking contrast between the cool-toned flowers and the rich green leaves creates a serene and enchanting aesthetic that can brighten any indoor space.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Gesneriaceae
Synonyms
Cape Primrose, African Violet
Common names
Streptocarpus 'Crystal Ice' (PBR)
ToxicityTo humans
Streptocarpus 'Crystal Ice' is not known to be toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from ingesting parts of this plant, commonly known as Cape Primrose. Consequently, no specific symptoms of poisoning are associated with the Cape Primrose. However, as with any non-food plant, it's generally a good idea to avoid ingesting it, since individual allergies or sensitivities to plant compounds can cause adverse reactions.
To pets
Cape Primrose is not considered toxic to pets. There are no common reports of pets being poisoned by ingesting parts of Streptocarpus 'Crystal Ice'. Therefore, there are no specific symptoms of poisoning associated with this plant in pets. Nonetheless, pet owners should supervise their pets around plants and discourage them from eating non-food plants, as individual animals might have different sensitivities or allergic reactions.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1 foot (30 centimeters)
Spread
1 foot (30 centimeters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
10
Native area
Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Low Maintenance: Cape Primrose, the common name for Streptocarpus 'Crystal Ice', requires minimal care, making it suitable for busy plant owners.
- Long Flowering Period: Cape Primrose is known for its lengthy blooming times, providing a continuous display of flowers.
- Brightens Indoor Spaces: With its attractive flowers, Cape Primrose can add a splash of color to indoor environments.
- Compact Growth: Cape Primrose has a compact growth habit, which makes it ideal for small spaces or as a tabletop plant.
- Adaptable Light Requirements: Cape Primrose can thrive in a range of light conditions, from bright indirect light to semi-shade, offering flexibility in placement.
- Variety of Colors: The flowers of Cape Primrose come in various shades and patterns, offering aesthetic variety for collectors and enthusiasts.
- Easy Propagation: It can be easily propagated from leaf cuttings, allowing gardeners to create new plants and expand their collection.
- Non-Toxic: Cape Primrose is not known to be toxic to pets or humans, making it a safe choice for a household with animals or children.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography subject: The unique flower pattern and colors of Cape primrose make it an excellent subject for macro and botanical photography enthusiasts.
- Educational model: Cape primrose can be used in schools to teach students about pollination as it attracts bees and butterflies.
- Art inspiration: Artists may draw inspiration from the intricate design and vibrant colors of the Cape primrose flowers for paintings, illustrations, and textile designs.
- Mood enhancement: The bright flowers of the Cape primrose can be placed in workspaces or studios to create a cheerful and stimulating environment.
- Culinary decoration: Although not for consumption, the delicate blooms can adorn cakes or dessert platters for a touch of natural beauty at special events.
- Color dyes: Historically, people have used flowers to create natural dyes, and while not common, petals of Cape primrose could potentially be used for experimenting with fabric or crafting dyes.
- Symbolic gift: Different flowers have symbolic meanings, and Cape primrose can be given as a gift to express subtle and elegant beauty in a non-traditional way.
- Ice cubes: Freeze Cape primrose flowers in ice cubes to make a decorative statement in punch bowls or cocktails for fancy events (provided they are free from pesticides and contaminants).
- Photogenic backdrop: Because of their lush foliage and flowers, Cape primroses can be used as a live backdrop in product photography to convey a fresh and natural look.
- Study on flowering patterns: Cape primrose can serve as a specimen for scientific studies or amateur observations on flowering patterns, growth conditions, and hybridization effects.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Cape Primrose is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Cape Primrose is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience and Adaptability: Streptocarpus, also known as Cape Primrose, often symbolizes resilience and adaptability due to its ability to thrive in diverse environments with varying light and moisture levels.
- Enduring Love: The long-lasting nature of its flowers can symbolize enduring love, suggesting a relationship that withstands the test of time.
- Persistence: Cape Primrose's continuous blooming throughout its growing season can symbolize persistence and the continuous effort in various aspects of life, such as personal growth or professional endeavors.
WaterFor the Cape Primrose, water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, approximately once a week. Use room temperature water and ensure you provide enough water so that it starts to drain out of the pot's bottom, signaling that the soil is saturated. This could be around 8-16 ounces for a medium-sized pot, but it can vary depending on the size of the plant and environmental conditions. During winter, reduce watering frequency as the plant requires less moisture. It's critical to avoid letting the Cape Primrose sit in waterlogged soil, as this can lead to root rot.
LightThe Cape Primrose thrives in bright, indirect light. An ideal spot would be a north-facing or east-facing window where it can receive plenty of light without being exposed to direct sunlight, which can scorch its leaves. Maintaining consistent light conditions without extreme fluctuations helps ensure vibrant foliage and abundant blooms.
TemperatureCape Primroses prefer temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth. They can survive in temperatures as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 80 degrees Fahrenheit, but prolonged exposure outside this range could stress the plant. Keeping your Cape Primrose away from drafts and sudden temperature changes will contribute to its health and longevity.
PruningPruning the Cape Primrose is necessary to remove dead or yellowing leaves and encourage a bushier growth habit. Using clean scissors or pruning shears, cut back the foliage after the main blooming period. Typically, pruning is done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Pruning can help prevent disease and promote more blooms during the next flowering cycle.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Cape Primrose (the common name for Streptocarpus 'Crystal Ice') is a well-draining, airy mixture, such as one part peat moss with one part perlite or vermiculite. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ideally between 5.8 and 6.5.
RepottingCape Primrose should be repotted approximately every two years or when it outgrows its current pot. It's crucial to use fresh soil mix each time to replenish nutrients and encourage healthy growth.
Humidity & MistingCape Primrose thrives in moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 50-70%. Maintaining these conditions can promote lush foliage and vibrant blooms.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep in bright, indirect light and water when topsoil is dry.
Outdoor
Use pots in shade to part-shade, shelter from harsh elements.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA.
Life cycleThe life of a Streptocarpus 'Crystal Ice', commonly known as Cape Primrose, begins with seed germination, which occurs in a moist, well-draining growing medium under bright, indirect light. Seedlings grow and develop a rosette of leaves; during this juvenile phase, the plant establishes itself and matures before flowering. The vegetative growth phase continues as long leaves proliferate, and the plant may produce offsets or clumps that can be divided. The flowering stage follows, where the plant showcases long-lasting blooms, typically in the spring and summer months, which may occur multiple times if conditions are favorable. After flowering, the plant enters a rest or dormancy phase, particularly in cooler months, to conserve energy. Throughout its life, proper care including regular watering, occasional fertilizing, and removal of spent flowers will encourage repeated bloom cycles until the plant's vitality gradually wanes after several years.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Cape primrose, as Streptocarpus 'Crystal Ice' is commonly known, can be easily propagated by leaf cuttings, one of its most popular methods. This is usually done in spring or summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate by leaf cuttings, a healthy leaf is selected and cut horizontally into sections, each about 1.5 to 2 inches (approximately 3.8 to 5 centimeters) long, ensuring that each section includes a vein. The cut sections are then inserted into a moist potting mix, with the cut edge down, and placed in a warm, well-lit spot out of direct sunlight. The leaf sections should be kept moderately moist, and in a few weeks, new growth will begin to appear at the base of the cuttings, indicating that roots have formed. Once the new plants have developed a robust root system, they can be transplanted into individual pots to continue growing.
