STREPTOCARPUS

Cape Primrose. Tender perennial



The hybrids are a very striking race, invaluable for greenhouse and

conservatory decoration, producing a continuous succession of large

trumpet-shaped flowers, embracing colours ranging from pure white,

through lavender, purple, violet, rose, and red, to rich rosy-purple.

Sow very thinly from January to March in well-drained pots, and a

dusting of fine soil will sufficiently cover the seed. Place the pots in

a temperature of 60 deg. to 65 deg., and take care that the soil is not allowed

to become dry. Prick off the seedlings when large enough to handle,

keeping them in the temperature named until the final potting. When

established they thrive with ordinary attention in a greenhouse, and

they winter well in a temperature ranging between 40 deg. and 50 deg.. Seed sown

in January and February will produce plants which will come into bloom

during the following June and July.



Streptocarpus Wendlandii is a singularly interesting variety. Only one

immense leaf is produced, which frequently attains a width of two feet,

with a proportionate length. This leaf is reflexed, completely hiding

the pot on one side, and from its midrib scapes of elegant violet-blue

flowers with white throat are thrown up to a height of eighteen inches.

The seeds should be sown in a warm greenhouse early in the year. The

plants will begin to flower in the winter and continue in bloom for

about six months. The temperature which is suitable for Gloxinias will

answer for this plant also.