Streptocarpus saundersii — Clump forming

Overview

Streptocarpus saundersii is a clump forming conservatory greenhouse in the genus Streptocarpus, part of the Gesneriaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Streptocarpus saundersii 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 saundersii is a clump-forming cultivar within the Streptocarpus genus, known for its deciduous foliage and tubular to trumpet-like flowers with five spreading lobes. This plant thrives in bright indirect light and prefers moist but well-drained soil, suitable for loam or sand with a range of pH levels from acid to alkaline. It is hardy to H1c and is best grown as a houseplant or in conservatories and greenhouses, where temperatures are maintained between 15-25°C. Propagation can be achieved through leaf cuttings, seed, or division, with interest from spring through to autumn.

About the genus

Streptocarpus is an Afrotropical genus of flowering plants in the family Gesneriaceae. The genus is native to Afromontane biotopes from central, eastern and southern Africa, including Madagascar and the Comoro Islands. The flowers are five-petalled, salverform tubes, almost orchid-like in appearance, and hover or arch over the plant, while the pointed, elongate fruit is of a helical form similar to that of the "tusk" of a narwhal.

Wikipedia contributors, "Streptocarpus", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Streptocarpus

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 saundersii 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 saundersii

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 saundersii?

Streptocarpus saundersii prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Streptocarpus saundersii need?

Streptocarpus saundersii 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 saundersii hardy in the UK?

Streptocarpus saundersii 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 saundersii?

Leaf cuttings, Seed, Division.

More in the Streptocarpus genus

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