Streptocarpus burttianus comes from the Nguru Mountains in south central Tanzania which is an area of exceptional botanical diversity in general, but specifically known as the location of many Streptocarpus and the many Saintpaulia species now recognized as Streptocarpus. Its large unifoliate leaf grows on earth embankments in forest patches and produces one of the most spectacular displays of flowers of any Streptocarpus. The density of flowers almost reminds one of cherry blossoms. It is one of the most attractive unifoliates in the genus, but unfortunately is not yet in cultivation.
Its name honors Dr. Bill Burtt, and its beauty makes it an appropriate homage to a major contributor to our understanding of Streptocarpus.
