African Violet Plant Care Guide
About African Violets
The African violet botanical name is, Saintpaulia. They are known for having bright colorful variations within their flowers. Their flowers can vary from white, purple, pink, and red. Each one of their beautiful flowers have five petals and are velvety to touch. Due to the African violets temperamental, humidity and sunlight requirements, this plant is best for intermediate plant lovers. A fun fact about the African violet is that they have flowers all year round!
Common Varieties of African Violet Plants
There are about 16,000 varieties of African violets. Famously known for their wide variety of flower color, below are some of the most common types of African violets.
Sansevieria trifasciata
Sunlight Requirements
Make some room in your plant cabinet for this popular houseplant because African violet plants have temperamental sunlight requirements. African violets need 14 hours of light and 10 hours of darkness each day. The importance of darkness is to allow the plant to produce its famous beautiful flowers. If you do not own a designated lighting and humidity cabinet, place your African violet near a west facing window. NEVER expose your African violet plant to bright lights as this can cause the leaves to burn.
Humidity Requirements
African violet plants need tons of moisture. The houseplant prefers to be at a 80% humidity level. The African violet does not respond lightly to sudden fluctuations in humidity levels. It may be beneficial to invest in a humidifier to control its temperamental climate.
Temperature Requirements
African Violet plants prefer the temperature to be between 65°F-80°F. Keep your African Violet near a west or east facing window where it will receive bright indirect light.
Watering Requirements
The soil should always be moist when talking about African violet plants. One of the worst mistakes plant parents make is over watering their Saintpaulia plant which can lead to disease, pests, and death. Generally, the African violet needs to be watered once a week. Depending on the time of year, it may need to be watered more frequently.
What does a variegated African violet plant look like?
Can I keep my African violet plant indoors or outdoors?
Susceptible Diseases & Pests
African violets are susceptible to many pests and deadly diseases, some of which include the following:
Bacterial Blight
Ring Spot
Foliar Nematode