Cape primrose (Streptocarpus)

Streptocarpus spp. (Gesneriaceae)

Also called Twisted Fruit, Bavarian Belle.

Cats and dogs

Non-toxic to cats and dogs

Cats: non-toxic Dogs: non-toxic

Not expected to poison cats or dogs. Eating any plant can still cause vomiting or an upset stomach, so keep it out of reach of chewers.

Source: ASPCA entry "Cape Primrose", checked October 3, 2026.

Light

  1. Low light 3+ mol
  2. Medium light 6+ mol Copes
  3. Bright indirect 10+ mol Best
  4. Direct sun 12+ mol

Grows in bright to moderate light; an east-facing window is ideal. Avoid direct afternoon sun.

Direct sun: a little gentle morning sun is fine.

On our scale it grows well from about 10 mol/m²/day and holds on down to roughly 1.1 (how these numbers are set).

Will it grow in my window?

Care

Care level: Moderate. Water: Water well, then let it dry between waterings; avoid wetting the leaves and do not let the pot sit in water.

Browning leaf edges can signal overwatering; hard water may cause chlorosis.

More pet-safe plants for similar light

Sources