Cape primrose 'Rubina Pink' Streptocarpus 'Rubina Pink'

Water

The Cape Primrose should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, approximately once a week. During active growth in spring and summer, it may need more frequent watering, about every 4 to 5 days, depending on environmental conditions. When watering, use room-temperature water, and pour slowly until water begins to drain out of the bottom of the pot, which could equal about 8-16 ounces for a standard 6-inch pot. In winter, allow the soil to dry out a bit more between waterings, reducing the frequency to every 10-14 days. Avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent fungal diseases.

Light

Cape Primrose prefers bright, indirect light away from direct afternoon sun which can scorch its leaves. An east-facing window that provides some morning light or a north-facing window that gets consistent indirect light throughout the day are ideal locations for this plant.

Temperature

Cape Primrose thrives at room temperature, ideally between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It should not be exposed to temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, as it may suffer cold damage. The plant will perform best if kept away from drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations.

Pruning

Prune Cape Primrose to remove dead or yellowing leaves and spent flower stems to encourage new growth and maintain the plant's appearance. This should be done as needed throughout the year, with a thorough clean-up pruning usually best after the main blooming cycle. Pinch off the tips of the stems periodically to create a bushier plant.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Cape Primrose, also known as Streptocarpus 'Rubina Pink', thrives in a well-draining soil mix consisting of equal parts peat, perlite, and vermiculite. Ensure the soil pH hovers between 5.5 and 6.5 for the healthiest growth.

Repotting

Cape Primrose should be repotted every 1 to 2 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the previous one.

Humidity & Misting

Cape Primrose prefers a moderately humid environment with humidity levels around 50% being ideal for its growth.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Cape Primrose in bright, indirect light inside.

• Outdoor

  Grow Cape Primrose in shaded area, protect from direct sun.

• Hardiness zone

  10-11 USDA

Life cycle

Streptocarpus 'Rubina Pink', commonly known as Cape Primrose, begins its life as a seed, typically germinating in warm, moist conditions. Upon germination, the seedling emerges with cotyledons before developing its characteristic velvety foliage, which grows in a rosette pattern. As the plant matures, it produces long, slender flower stalks with pink, trumpet-shaped flowers, which are capable of blooming for several months. After pollination, the flowers will fade and the plant can produce seed pods, with each pod containing numerous tiny seeds. During its growing season, the Cape Primrose can produce multiple flushes of flowers, especially when properly cared for with adequate moisture, light, and nutrients. The plant may go semi-dormant in cooler seasons or in unfavorable conditions, but with good care, it can live and bloom for several years.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Streptocarpus 'Rubina Pink', commonly known as Cape Primrose, is best propagated during its active growth period, which is typically in the spring or early summer. The most popular method for propagating Cape Primrose is by leaf cuttings. To do this, a healthy, mature leaf is selected and cut across into sections that are about 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.5 cm) in length. Each section should contain a vein. These sections are then placed vein-side down into a moist potting mix or vermiculite. They must be kept in bright, indirect light and at a temperature around 70°F (21°C). With consistent moisture and time, small plantlets will emerge from the veins, at which point they can eventually be separated and potted on their own to grow into mature plants.