african violets

One of the most popular flowering houseplants because they are easy to grow, tolerate average indoor conditions, and can flower throughout the year, and are people and pet friendly. There are thousands of different varieties with 1″ wide, single to doubled flowers in colors varying from classic purple-violet, blue, to every shade of pink and rose, white, bicolor, speckled petals, and some that have contrasting colors on the petal edges. Foliage can be light to dark green, variegated or ruffled with a generous coating of fuzzy hairs which helps absorb humidity. Streptocarpus and Streptocarpella are close relatives of African Violets, and will benefit from the same growing conditions. Shop African Violets available now.

Grow in bright to medium, indirect lighting from an eastern or northern exposure window, or under fluorescent lighting. Prefers average to warm household temperatures, 60°-70°F. Bottom watering is recommended because their foliage “burns” if cold water sits on their leaves when watered over head. Keep soil evenly moist to slightly dry. Supply extra humidity by setting on a shallow tray of moistened pebbles. Feed with an African violet food once a month, or try adding a ¼ strength multipurpose fertilizer every time you water. Repot in spring using an African violet soil when roots have completely filled the pot.