African Violet

Family: Gesneriacae

Genus: Saintpaulia

Botanical Name: Streptocarpus

Difficulty: Easy to take care of

African violets are small houseplants that produce white, blue, or purple flowers over fuzzy leaves. They do best and produce the most blooms in bright, indirect light. They are generally easy to care for, they can go through fuzzy spells, but do not be discouraged!!

Light

An African violet can tolerate bright, indirect light. It also does well if grown under a grow light. It does not tolerate hot light

Water

When it comes to watering an African violet, you should always bottom water. If more than 25% of the soil is dry, the plant will pretend to die. If you fertilize your plant, top water once a month to flush out any fertilizer that may have settled on the topsoil. Be extra careful not to get water on their leaves.

Climate

An African violet needs to be in warm temperatures (65-80 degrees). It also needs 80% humidity.

Pests and Diseases

African violets attract mealybugs and they can get Crown and Root Rot. They also attract cyclamen mites and spider mites.

Tips

• The fuzzy leaves have a tendency to collect dust and dirt. Brush them off gently with a small, soft-bristled paintbrush.

• Bright indirect light is ideal, but during the winter they can tolerate full sun.

• They bloom best when slightly potbound, so do not rush to move them into larger containers.

Signs your plant is unhappy

• Limp blooms- under watered, not enough light

• Stem rot- overwatered

• White leaves- fungal growth (needs to be repotted)

• Brown spots on leaves- Too much light

Propagation

African violets are propagated in water, or they can be propagated by seed, but it does require a couple of specific conditions if done by seed. To sprout the seeds, it is good to use a light soil mixture of peat, vermiculite, and greensand. Epsom say can also help to lighten the soil even more.

It is important that you have a warm space. The room temperature should be between 65 and 75 degrees. That should also be the temperature of the soil for optimal sprouting. Your seeds should germinate in 8 to 14 days.

Fun facts

• One of the most popular houseplants in the world.

• The African violet is a traditional gift given to mothers for Mother’s Day in some cultures.

• One of the easiest houseplants to grow.

• The hairs on the leaves help the violet absorb water from the air.

Hardiness zones

The African violet can survive in zones 11 to 12