Troubleshooting
Ridged Cape Primrose problems — and how to fix them
Ridged Cape Primrose (Streptocarpus trabeculatus) is generally low-drama, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Botrytis (grey mould)
Fuzzy grey growth on leaves or flower stalks in cool, damp or poorly ventilated conditions. Remove affected tissue with clean scissors, improve air movement, and avoid overhead watering.
Mealybugs
White waxy masses appear in leaf crevices along the ridges of the thick leaf; they weaken the plant by sucking sap. Treat with isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab or a systemic houseplant insecticide.
Prevent ridged cape primrose problems before they start
Most ridged cape primrose issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Ridged Cape Primrose problems — FAQ
Why is my ridged cape primrose botrytis (grey mould)?
Fuzzy grey growth on leaves or flower stalks in cool, damp or poorly ventilated conditions. Remove affected tissue with clean scissors, improve air movement, and avoid overhead watering.
Why is my ridged cape primrose mealybugs?
White waxy masses appear in leaf crevices along the ridges of the thick leaf; they weaken the plant by sucking sap. Treat with isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab or a systemic houseplant insecticide.