Streptocarpus rexii Lindl.
Frost-tender rhizomatous perennial with rosettes of strap-shaped leaves, to 30cm long, and cymes of up to 6 violet-tinged white, or violet flowers, to 4.5cm across, with violet lines on the lower lobes, from spring to autumn. To 25cm. [RHSE, Hortus, Don].
Horticultural & Botanical History
‘For this, one of the most beautiful inhabitants of our stoves and warm greenhouses, we are indebted to the Royal Gardens of Kew, to which place it was introduced by Mr. Bowie, His Majesty’s collector in Southern Africa. Specimens and seeds were gathered in the district of Knysna, upon the estates of George Rex, Esq. after whom its discoverer wished the plant to be named. So abundantly does it produce seed, that new individuals come up as weeds in the neighbouring pots, and a sucession of flowers may be obtained at almost every period of the year.’ [BM t.3005/1830]. ‘Introduced from the Cape of Good Hope in 1823.’ [MB p.81/1837]. ‘This interesting little Cape plant is well worthy of cultivation when small plants are wanted, and it is by no means difficult to manage.’ [Gard. Chron. 1854]. ‘A beautiful stove perennial plant, flowering every month in the year in the utmost profusion.’ [BR f.1173/1828]. ‘According to Dr. Hooker, it flowered in October 1826 [at Kew].’ [LBC no. 1305/1828].
History at Camden Park
Listed only in the 1857 catalogue [T.955/1857].
Notes
Published Sep 09, 2009 - 01:42 PM | Last updated Jul 21, 2010 - 05:22 PM
Streptocarpus rexii Lindl. | LBC no.1305/1828 | HAAB
| Family | Gesneriaceae |
|---|---|
| Category | |
| Region of origin | South Africa |
| Synonyms |
|
| Common Name | Cape primrose |
| Name in the Camden Park Record | Streptocarpus Rexii |
| Confidence level | high |