African Violet
Streptocarpus ionanthus · Gesneriaceae
- Light
- Bright-indirect
- Water
- Moderate
- Humidity
- Average
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Pet-safe
- Yes
- Propagation
- Leaf Cuttings, Division
Common problems: Root RotBotrytis Gray MoldPowdery MildewFungus Gnats
Quick facts
- Light: Bright indirect · Water: Keep lightly, evenly moist · Humidity: Average to slightly elevated
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Pet-safe: Yes
Description
A compact flowering houseplant with fuzzy rounded leaves and purple, pink, white, or blue flowers held above the foliage. A good African violet looks tidy and full rather than large, and it rewards stable care more than brute force.
Care
- Light: Bright indirect light or a bright windowsill without harsh midday sun.
- Water: Keep the mix lightly moist but never soggy. Letting water sit in the crown can cause rot.
- Soil & potting: African-violet mix or any very airy fine-textured mix in a small pot.
- Humidity & temperature: Average home humidity is fine if air movement is decent; avoid cold windows.
- Feeding: Weak, regular feeding during active growth and flowering.
- Repotting / propagation: Likes being slightly snug in its pot.
Propagation
Very good from leaf cuttings. One healthy leaf with petiole can root and produce baby plants in a light mix. Some mature clumps can also be divided. See Propagation Basics.
Toxicity
Generally treated as pet-safe. African violets are widely listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs, though chewing foliage can still cause minor stomach upset.
Common ailments, afflictions & pests
Click any item for how to identify and treat it.
- Root Rot — from soggy mix or water sitting in the crown.
- Botrytis Gray Mold — fuzzy gray mold on flowers or leaves in stagnant, humid conditions.
- Powdery Mildew — white film on leaves where air is stale.
- Fungus Gnats — usually a sign the mix is staying too wet.
See also: Diagnose a Problem.