Streptocarpus (Streptocarpella) saxorum, Gesneriaceae
Although reduced in size, the very peculiar look of this species first described little over thirty years ago and generally known as nodding violet, along with the colour of its flowers, make this one of my favourite plants currently in bloom at Glasgow Botanic Gardens. You might be more familiar with the ornamental hybrids developed within the genus Streptocarpus, the cape primroses, from which African violets (Saintpaulias) evolved, quite different in form and habit. The flowers are also similar to those of some Gloxinias, other popular houseplants within the same family.Â
As the species name suggests, the nodding violet is native to SE Africa, where its slender trailing stems and small, succulent rosettes spread over rocky soil exposed to the sun, propagating via seeds released by the spiraling seed pods you see in photo (namesake for the genus) and also via vegetative propagation. The latter is obviously the quickest method to establish a new plant, but, given the right conditions, it would also rapidly grow from seed to flowering size within one year. Â
I might look into getting some seeds if possible, I would love to try and grow it!