Streptocarpus Pretty Turtle

This little beauty is the Streptocarpus 'Pretty Turtle'. Named quite literally for its foliage; those fuzzy, succulent-like leaves have a pattern that looks exactly like the intricate shell of a sea turtle. It’s part of the Cape Primrose family, but it has a much more rugged, prehistoric vibe than its flowery cousins.

Origin

• The Family: It belongs to the Streptocarpus genus, specifically within the Gesneriad family (relatives of the African Violet).

• Native Roots: The wild ancestors of this plant hail from the shaded, rocky hillsides and wooded ravines of South Africa.

• The Look: Unlike many other Streptocarpus, 'Pretty Turtle' is grown primarily for its stunning, silver-mottled green leaves and its unique, bushy habit.

Care Guide

• Light: It prefers bright, indirect light. A spot near a north or east-facing window is spot-on. Avoid harsh, direct midday sun, as those beautiful leaves can scorch quite easily.

• Watering: This is the most important bit—don't overwater! Wait until the top couple of centimetres of soil feel dry to the touch. It’s a bit like a succulent; it stores water in its leaves, so it's better to underwater than to let it sit in a puddle.

• Humidity: It’s quite content with standard British household humidity. However, try to keep it out of the direct path of a draughty window or a parching radiator.

• Temperature: It thrives in a comfortable room temperature. If you’re feeling chilly, your plant probably is too.

• Feeding: Give it a splash of balanced liquid fertiliser roughly once a month during the spring and summer. You can skip the snacks during the winter months.

• The "No-Touch" Rule: Try to avoid getting water directly on the fuzzy leaves, as this can cause marking or rot. Water from the bottom or aim your watering can spout directly at the soil.

Top Tip 

If the leaves start to look a bit limp, it’s usually telling you it’s thirsty. Once you give it a drink, it should perk back up within a few hours.

Sold without a decorative pot, colour and size may vary slightly.

Local plant delivery or collection available in Belfast and throughout Northern Ireland.