Share
African violets (Saintpaulia) are beloved houseplants cherished for their velvety flowers and compact growth. Native to the tropical rainforests of East Africa, these plants are surprisingly low-maintenance when their basic needs are met. Here’s a guide to help you keep your African violets healthy and blooming.
African violets flourish in bright, diffused light, since direct sunlight can burn their foliage. Indoors, place them near a north- or east-facing window. In case natural light is inadequate, fluorescent or LED grow lights serve as an excellent substitute. To ensure even growth and prevent the plant from leaning toward the light, rotate the pot regularly.
Proper watering is essential for African violets, as they are sensitive to overwatering and water temperature. Always use room-temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Bottom water your plant by placing the pot in a shallow tray of water for about 30 minutes, allowing the plant to absorb what it needs. Once done, remove any excess water. Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy, letting the top inch dry out slightly between waterings. When watering into a pot without drainage holes, be sure to discard any excess watering sitting at the bottom of your pot to prevent root rot or pests.
Light, well-draining soil is vital to prevent root rot. Use a mix specifically designed for African violets, or create one by combining equal parts peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite. Repot your African violet every 6–12 months into a slightly larger pot to refresh the soil and encourage healthy growth.
As tropical plants, African violets prefer warm and humid conditions. Maintain an ideal temperature range of 65–75°F (18–24°C) and avoid placing them near drafts, vents, or areas prone to sudden temperature changes. Aim for moderate humidity levels (50–60%), and if your home is dry, use a pebble tray or a small humidifier to increase moisture in the air.
Yes, African violets (Saintpaulia spp.) are generally considered pet safe. They are non-toxic to both cats and dogs, making them a good choice for homes with pets. While the plant is not harmful if ingested, it's still important to discourage pets from chewing on them, as this can cause mild digestive upset. Additionally, eating large quantities of any plant material may lead to gastrointestinal issues, even if the plant itself is non-toxic. However, African violets are usually not very attractive to pets, so the risk of ingestion is low.
While African violets are light feeders, they benefit from regular fertilization during their growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer made for African violets, diluted to half strength. Feed the plants every 2–4 weeks during spring and summer, and reduce fertilization during the fall and winter months.
To keep your African violets looking their best, remove spent flowers (deadheading) to encourage new blooms and maintain a tidy appearance. Dust the leaves gently with a soft brush or damp cloth to enhance photosynthesis and prevent the buildup of debris.
If you notice brown spots on the leaves, this is often caused by water droplets exposed to sunlight—always water from below or avoid splashing the leaves. Wilting or yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering, underwatering, or poor drainage, so adjust your watering schedule and ensure proper soil aeration. If your plant isn’t blooming, insufficient light, over-fertilizing, or stress could be the cause. Move the plant to a brighter location and reduce feeding if necessary.
African violets are easy to propagate through leaf cuttings. Select a healthy leaf and cut it at the base using a clean blade. Place the stem in water or moist soil until roots develop, then transfer the new plant to a small pot filled with African violet soil once new growth appears.
Use pots with drainage holes to prevent root rot, and avoid placing your plants in overly large pots, as African violets bloom best when slightly root-bound. Grouping them with other plants can also help maintain consistent humidity levels.