Mature size:
Height: 6-9 inches(15-23 cm)
Spread:6-9 inches(15-23 cm)
Colors: white, pink, deep purple, maroon, blue
Site: Bright, indirect light for 12-16 hours/day
North or east facing window or fluorescent or LED lights
Soil: soilless mix
When to plant: anytime indoors

African violets originated in East Africa and are colorful and attractive houseplants that come in a variety of colors.  Known to be a bit finicky, they are generally easy to grow.  One of the main reasons people enjoy African Violets is their ability to flower throughout the year.  Flowering is dependent upon light.  Bright, indirect light for 12-16 hours per day from a north or east facing window or a fluorescent or LED light and 8 hours of darkness are required. 

These beautiful plants need well-drained consistently moist soil to grow well.  Because contact with cold water can damage the leaves, a container with drain holes placed in a shallow container of water works well.  Top watering with room temperature water from a thin-necked watering can to avoid wetting the leaves is also acceptable.

High quality soilless potting mix allows African Violets to drain well and prevents roots from rotting in standing or soggy soil.  A diluted fertilizer to ¼ strength or a formula specifically for African Violets should be used at every watering.  Since good drainage is important, a pot with multiple drainage holes is advisable. 

African Violets in the right conditions should bloom all year round.  Light, room temperature, watering and container size will affect blooming. Temperatures too hot or too cold will stop bloom development.  Overwatering without fertilizer also affects blooming. African violets prefer humid conditions at temperatures between 65-80 degrees Fahrenheit.  These conditions can be achieved in a terrarium or placing pots on a pebble tray of water.  African violets also prefer slightly root bounding to bloom. Pruning the outer ring of older, faded or brown leaves and snipping off faded flowers promotes a healthy plant.

In summary, African Violets require precise care for beautiful flowers that consistently bloom.  Hundreds of varieties can be found in garden centers which include a variety of colors, single and double, ruffled, star and wasp-shaped flowers.

Smith County Master Gardeners are volunteer educators certified and coordinated by the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service.

Anthe Caruso