Saintpaulia

Description

Saintpaulia, commonly known as African violet, is a genus of flowering plants that belong to the family Gesneriaceae. These plants are native to Tanzania and Kenya in East Africa, where they grow in the shade of trees and on rocky outcrops. Saintpaulia is a popular houseplant due to its attractive flowers and ease of care.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Saintpaulia plants have dark green, hairy leaves that grow in a rosette pattern. The flowers are usually blue, purple, or pink, and have five petals that form a tubular shape. The flowers grow in clusters above the leaves and can bloom throughout the year. Some hybrids have variegated leaves or double flowers.

Care Guide

Saintpaulia plants are relatively easy to care for, and they can thrive indoors with minimal attention. Here are some tips for keeping your African violet healthy:

Water

Water African violets from the bottom to avoid getting the leaves wet. Fill a saucer with water and place the pot on top, allowing the plant to soak up the water from the bottom. Avoid using cold water, as it can shock the roots.

Fertilization

African violets benefit from regular fertilization with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season and reduce the frequency during the winter months.

Soil

African violets prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a potting mix that is specifically formulated for African violets, or make your own by combining equal parts of peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite.

Sunlight

African violets prefer bright, indirect light. Place your plant near a window that receives morning or afternoon sun, but avoid direct sunlight, which can burn the leaves.

Hardiness Zones

African violets are not frost-tolerant and should be kept indoors in most climates. However, they can be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 11 and 12, where temperatures remain above 40°F (4°C) year-round.

Common Pests & Diseases

African violets are susceptible to a few common pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common issues and how to treat them:

Pests

• Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Use a miticide to treat the infestation.
• Mealybugs: These white, fluffy insects can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. Use an insecticidal soap to treat the infestation.

Diseases

• Root rot: Overwatering or poorly draining soil can cause the roots to rot. Remove the plant from the soil, trim the affected roots, and repot in fresh soil.
• Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Use a fungicide to treat the infestation.

Habitat

Saintpaulia plants are native to Tanzania and Kenya in East Africa, where they grow in the shade of trees and on rocky outcrops. They prefer warm temperatures and high humidity, but can adapt to a wide range of conditions.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I water my African violet?

A: Water your African violet from the bottom every seven to ten days, or when the soil feels dry to the touch.

Q: Can I grow African violets outdoors?

A: African violets are not frost-tolerant and should be kept indoors in most climates. However, they can be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 11 and 12, where temperatures remain above 40°F (4°C) year-round.

Q: How can I propagate African violets?

A: African violets can be propagated by leaf or stem cuttings. Place the cutting in water or a rooting hormone until roots form, then plant in soil.

Q: How do I prune my African violet?

A: Prune African violets by removing any yellow or dead leaves, as well as any flowers that have faded. Pinch back the tips of the stems to encourage branching.

Related Plants

• Gloxinia
• Streptocarpus
• Episcia
• Achimenes

References

• “African Violet.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=274791.
• “Saintpaulia.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 28 Sept. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saintpaulia.
• “African Violet Care.” Better Homes & Gardens, 17 Feb. 2021, www.bhg.com/gardening/houseplants/care/african-violet-care/.