Growing Cape Primrose (Streptocarpus): Light, Water & Feeding

Streptocarpus (Cape Primrose) – A Charming Relative of African Violets

Cape primrose prefers the same conditions as African violets: bright, indirect light. Avoid hot sun, which burns leaves and fades flowers. Day/night temperatures of 60–75°F are ideal year-round.

Watering

Water only when the top inch of potting mix is dry. Overwatering causes root, leaf, and crown rot. If leaves look wilted despite moist soil, you're likely overwatering—let the top inch dry out before watering again. Reduce watering in winter (November–February).

Fertilizing

From spring through fall, apply a high-phosphorus water-soluble fertilizer (e.g., 15-30-15) every 3 weeks. Withhold fertilizer in winter when growth pauses.

Ongoing Care

• Snip off faded flower stalks with scissors.
• Trim dry leaf tips as they age.
• Repot into a slightly larger pot each spring.