African violet care guide
Streptocarpus ionanthus
Also known as: Saintpaulia ionantha, Saintpaulia
Pets and children
We haven't been able to confirm how this plant affects pets or small children. If any is eaten, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
How often to water African violet
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 4 days
- Once the topsoil dries, give room-temperature water at the base without wetting the leaves, as a guide; bottom watering also works well.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 5 days
- With cooler weather the soil dries slowly, so generally wait a day or two after the surface dries.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 7 days
- Growth slows in winter, so water sparingly a few days after the soil dries, as a guide, using tepid water during the warm part of the day.
Light and placement for African violet
A bright window behind a sheer curtain is the guide; direct sun scorches the leaves, in dim light the stalks stretch and it stops flowering, and it also does well under an LED grow light.
Overwintering African violet
Overwintering guide: 10°C (50°F) or above
Cold-sensitive: keep it indoors above about 10°C, ideally 15 to 20°C, away from a cold window at night and out of direct heater drafts.
Fertilizing and repotting African violet
Fertilizer
While it is growing, dilute liquid feed about every two weeks; ease off when growth stalls in midsummer and midwinter.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep), Autumn (Oct–Nov)
Common problems with African violet
- Cold water on the leaves causes spots and rot.
- Overwatering rots the crown and the leaves wilt.
- Direct sun scorches the leaves brown.
Tips for growing African violet
- It multiplies easily from a single leaf pushed into soil, sprouting in a few months.
- A pot slightly smaller than the leaf spread fills with roots quickly and flowers well.
- Removing suckers and old outer leaves keeps the rosette neat and encourages flowers.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
