African Violet

Saintpaulia ionanthaAlso known as: Saintpaulia, Usambara Violet

The African Violet is a beloved compact flowering plant with fuzzy leaves and clusters of flowers in purple, pink, white, red, or bi-colors. Native to Tanzanian cloud forests, it's one of the most popular flowering houseplants and can bloom year-round under proper conditions. Grows 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) wide.

Moderate Care

Medium Light

Perennial

Quick Care Summary

Light
Medium Light

Temperature Range
60-80°F (16-27°C)

Ideal Temp
70°F (21°C)

Pet Safe

This plant is non-toxic to cats and dogs. While it's safe to have around pets, ingestion of any plant material may still cause mild stomach upset.

Seasonal Care Schedule

Adjust your care routine based on the season for optimal plant health.

Watering Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	When top inch (2.5 cm) of soil is dry - water from bottom
Summer	Keep soil evenly moist, water from bottom
Fall	When soil surface is dry
Winter	Reduce slightly, soil should dry more between waterings

Water from bottom to avoid leaf spots. Use room temperature water. Cold water causes leaf spots.

Fertilizing Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Every 2 weeks with African violet fertilizer
Summer	Every 2 weeks
Fall	Every 3-4 weeks
Winter	Monthly

Use balanced or African violet specific fertilizer. Constant light feeding promotes continuous blooming.

Pruning

Frequency: Regularly remove spent flowers and damaged leaves

Best Season: Any time

Remove dead flowers promptly. Remove leaves growing toward center. Pinch or twist off - don't cut.

Repotting

Frequency: Every 6-12 months

Best Season: Spring or when needed

Use African violet potting mix. Shallow pot - roots stay near surface. Self-watering pots work well.

Flowering

Season
Year-round with proper care

Color
Purple, blue, pink, red, white, or bi-colors

Continuous blooming when happy. Single, semi-double, or double flower forms available.

Propagation Methods

Leaf cuttings in water or soil
Division of crowns
Easy to propagate from single leaf

Common Problems

Water spots on leaves: Cold water or water on leaves
No flowers: Insufficient light or wrong fertilizer ratio
Leggy growth: Not enough light
Crown rot: Water in crown or overwatering

Pro Tips

North or east windows ideal, or fluorescent/LED grow lights
Bottom watering prevents leaf spots
Rotate for symmetrical growth
Wicks or self-watering pots make care easier

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