Overview
Streptocarpus caulescens 'Compactus' is a clump forming conservatory greenhouse in the genus Streptocarpus, part of the Gesneriaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Streptocarpus caulescens 'Compactus' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates loam and sand soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1c. Suggested uses include houseplants and conservatory and greenhouse.
About
Streptocarpus caulescens 'Compactus' is a clump-forming cultivar of the Streptocarpus genus, which comprises annuals, perennials, and subshrubs known for their wrinkled, lanceolate or rounded leaves and clusters of tubular to trumpet-like flowers with five spreading lobes. This deciduous cultivar thrives in full sun or partial shade and prefers a sheltered position with moist but well-drained loam or sandy soil of any pH. Suitable for growing as a houseplant or in conservatories and greenhouses, it flowers from spring through autumn and requires bright indirect light with temperatures between 15-25°C.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Streptocarpus
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1c
Plant details
Streptocarpus caulescens 'Compactus' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Conservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Houseplants, Conservatory and greenhouse
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Streptocarpus caulescens 'Compactus'
- Propagation
- Leaf cuttings, Seed, Division
- Pest resistance
- Aphids, Glasshouse leafhopper, Mealybug, Tarsonemid mites
- Disease resistance
- Botrytis, Powdery mildew
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Streptocarpus caulescens 'Compactus'?
Streptocarpus caulescens 'Compactus' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Streptocarpus caulescens 'Compactus' need?
Streptocarpus caulescens 'Compactus' grows best in loam and sand soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Streptocarpus caulescens 'Compactus' hardy in the UK?
Streptocarpus caulescens 'Compactus' has an RHS hardiness rating of H1c, meaning it needs a warm, frost-free position of 5–10°C and is best grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Streptocarpus caulescens 'Compactus'?
Leaf cuttings, Seed, Division.
More in the Streptocarpus genus
- Streptocarpus 'Black Panther'

- Streptocarpus 'Aca's Red Ember' (AV/v)
- Streptocarpus 'Aly's Rosy Baby' (AV)African violet 'Alys Rosy Baby'
- Streptocarpus 'Amanda Rose'
- Streptocarpus 'Athena'
- Streptocarpus 'Beryl'
- Streptocarpus 'Blackie Bryant' (AV)
- Streptocarpus 'Blue Angel'