African Violet (Saintpaulia): History, Characteristics & Cultivation

African Violet (Saintpaulia)

Botanical Classification:

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Clade: Angiosperms
  • Clade: Eudicots
  • Clade: Asterids
  • Order: Lamiales
  • Family: Gesneriaceae
  • Genus: Saintpaulia

Saintpaulia is a genus within the Gesneriaceae family, known for its vibrant, often velvety flowers and its popularity as a houseplant. However, recent taxonomic revisions have seen many traditional Saintpaulia species reclassified under Streptocarpus or related genera, but for common usage, they’re still referred to as African Violets.

The first African Violets were discovered in Tanzania (formerly German East Africa) in 1892 by Baron Walter von Saint Paul-Illaire, from whom the genus gets its name. He sent specimens back to Europe, where they quickly became popular for their lush, colorful flowers and ease of indoor cultivation.

African Violets became a symbol of domesticity and were widely adopted in homes across the Western world during the 20th century, especially in the U.S. They’ve been bred extensively for a variety of colors, forms, and sizes, leading to thousands of cultivars. Breeding programs have also led to an array of African Violet types, from miniature to large-flowered varieties, with flowers in nearly every color except true blue, and with different leaf shapes and textures.

African Violets are not suited to outdoor cultivation in most USDA Hardiness Zones due to their origin in the tropical understory. They are primarily houseplants in all zones, thriving best in environments that mimic their natural habitat: They do well in Zones 1-13 when grown indoors, where conditions can be controlled to maintain warmth, humidity, and indirect light. In their native habitat or in similar tropical conditions (like Zones 10-11), they might be grown outdoors in shaded, humid areas, but this is not common due to their popularity as indoor plants.

Naturally occurring in the East African countries of Tanzania and Kenya, African Violets grow in the humid, shaded undergrowth of forests, often on rocky outcrops or in soil rich with organic matter. Their range as cultivated plants is global, found in homes, offices, and greenhouses across the world where indoor gardening is popular. They are one of the most widely grown houseplants due to their ease of care, continuous blooming under the right conditions, and the vast number of varieties available.

They are highly adaptable to indoor conditions, preferring bright, indirect light, high humidity, and consistent temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C). They do not tolerate cold drafts, water on their leaves (which can cause spotting), or direct sun which can scorch their leaves. In their native range, they are part of the understory flora, contributing to biodiversity and providing nectar for pollinators. However, due to their specific habitat requirements, they are not considered invasive outside of their native range when cultivated indoors.

Characteristics

  • Flowers: African Violets are renowned for their lush, colorful flowers which can range in color from white, pink, purple, to various shades of blue, though true blue is rare. Flowers come in single, semi-double, or double forms, with some varieties exhibiting a “fantasy” pattern of spots or stripes on the petals.
  • Leaves: The foliage is another highlight, with leaves being round, heart-shaped, or ovate, and often having a velvety texture. They can be plain green, variegated with white, cream, or pink, or even have a hairy or quilted texture.
  • Growth Habit: African Violets grow as compact, rosette-forming plants, typically reaching 6 to 12 inches (15-30 cm) in both height and spread. Their growth can be controlled through pruning and pot size.
  • Size: They range from miniatures, which are under 6 inches across, to standard varieties which can grow larger. The size of the plant often corresponds with the size of the flowers.

Cultivation

  • Light: Bright, indirect light is ideal. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while too little light can lead to leggy growth and fewer blooms. East or west-facing windows are often perfect, or use grow lights for consistent results.
  • Soil: A well-draining, light, and slightly acidic potting mix is essential. African Violet soil mixes are available commercially, or you can make your own with peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite for good drainage and aeration.
  • Water: Watering needs careful attention; the soil should be kept consistently moist but not soggy. Use room-temperature water to avoid shocking the plant, and water from the bottom to prevent leaf spotting. Allow excess water to drain away to avoid root rot.
  • Humidity: They thrive in high humidity, reflective of their tropical origins. In dry environments, increase humidity around the plants with a pebble tray, misting (avoiding the leaves directly), or using a humidifier.
  • Temperature: Ideal temperatures range from 65-75°F (18-24°C). Avoid cold drafts, sudden temperature changes, and temperatures below 60°F (15°C).
  • Fertilization: Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer formulated for African Violets every 2-4 weeks during the growing season. Use half-strength to avoid over-fertilization which can harm the plant.
  • Repotting: Repot annually or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use pots slightly larger than the root ball, as African Violets prefer being somewhat root-bound to bloom prolifically.

Propagation

  • Leaf Cuttings: The most common and straightforward method:
    • Select a healthy, mature leaf, cutting it near the base with at least 1 inch of petiole.
    • Insert the petiole into moistened potting mix or water (for water propagation, change water weekly), ensuring the leaf base is covered but the leaf itself is not submerged.
    • Roots and new plantlets will form in weeks to months, after which they can be potted individually.
  • Division: When repotting, you can divide the plant if it has multiple crowns:
    • Carefully separate the crowns, ensuring each has roots and leaves, then pot up individually in fresh soil.
  • Suckers: Spontaneous plantlets (suckers) can sometimes form around the base of the plant. These can be gently separated and potted up.
  • Seeds: Less common due to the time it takes and because seedlings might not retain the characteristics of the parent. Sow seeds on the surface of a seed-starting mix, keep warm and moist under light until germination.

Growing African Violets Indoors

Potting Mix:

  • Use a well-draining potting mix specifically formulated for African violets. A typical mix consists of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite, which provides good aeration and moisture retention.
  • Avoid using heavy garden soil, as it can lead to root rot and other issues.

Watering:

  • Water African violets from the bottom to prevent water from sitting on the leaves, which can cause spotting or fungal diseases. Place the pot in a saucer of water for about 30 minutes, allowing the soil to absorb the moisture.
  • Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. Overwatering is a common problem that can lead to root rot.

Fertilization:

  • Feed African violets regularly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer formulated for blooming plants. A ratio of 14-12-14 or 20-20-20 is commonly recommended.
  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for dilution rates, and reduce the frequency of fertilization during the winter months when the plant’s growth slows down.

Pruning and Grooming:

  • Remove spent flowers and yellowing leaves regularly to encourage new growth and maintain a tidy appearance.
  • Occasionally, repot the plant in fresh soil to rejuvenate it and provide more space for the roots to grow.

African Violet (Saintpaulia) Cultivars

1. Flower Color Varieties

a. Blue/Purple Cultivars:

  • ‘Blue Boy’: A classic variety with deep blue flowers and dark green leaves. It’s known for its vigorous growth and frequent blooming.
  • ‘Amethyst Ice’: This cultivar features striking purple flowers with a white edge, creating a beautiful contrast against its medium-green foliage.
  • ‘Rob’s Happy Harold’: Known for its vibrant lavender-blue flowers, this cultivar also boasts a compact growth habit and glossy leaves.

b. Pink Cultivars:

  • ‘Pink Amiss’: A popular pink-flowered variety with frilly, double blooms and light green leaves. It’s prized for its long-lasting flowers.
  • ‘Valencia’: Features soft pink single flowers with a slight ruffle on the edges. The leaves are medium green with slightly serrated edges.
  • ‘Peach Blow’: A unique cultivar with peachy-pink flowers that have a subtle iridescent sheen, complemented by bright green foliage.

c. Red/Orange Cultivars:

  • ‘Red Flash’: A bold cultivar with bright red flowers and variegated leaves that have splashes of cream and green. It’s a showstopper in any collection.
  • ‘Orchid Flame’: This cultivar showcases deep coral-red flowers with a hint of orange, set against dark green leaves with a slightly wavy texture.
  • ‘Tangerine Dream’: Known for its vivid orange flowers, which are relatively rare among African violets. The leaves are a rich, dark green.

d. White Cultivars:

  • ‘White Cap’: A pure white-flowered variety with a neat, compact rosette form. The leaves are medium green with a smooth texture.
  • ‘Snow Queen’: Features large, pristine white flowers and dark green leaves with a slightly metallic sheen. It’s known for its consistent blooming.
  • ‘Majestic Snow’: This cultivar has large, semi-double white flowers and variegated leaves with creamy white edges.

e. Bicolor/Multicolored Cultivars:

  • ‘Bingo Blush’: Displays bicolor flowers with a pale pink base and darker pink edges, creating a stunning two-tone effect. The leaves are dark green with a slight gloss.
  • ‘Calypso’: Features flowers with a combination of purple and white, often described as “picotee” due to the contrasting edges. The leaves are medium green with a matte finish.
  • ‘Candy Dots’: This cultivar has flowers with irregular pink spots on a white background, giving it a whimsical, polka-dotted appearance. The leaves are a mix of green and cream.

2. Leaf Shape Varieties

a. Standard Leaf Shapes:

  • ‘Optimara Little Angel’: A compact cultivar with standard, round-shaped leaves and small, delicate lavender flowers. It’s ideal for small spaces or terrariums.
  • ‘Rob’s Happy Harold’: In addition to its beautiful blue flowers, this cultivar has broad, rounded leaves that give it a robust appearance.

b. Ruffled/Serrated Leaf Shapes:

  • ‘Ruffled Elegance’: As the name suggests, this cultivar has deeply ruffled leaves that add a touch of elegance to its already stunning purple flowers.
  • ‘Serenade’: Features serrated leaves with a slightly wavy texture, paired with soft pink flowers that have a gentle ruffle on the edges.

c. Variegated Leaf Shapes:

  • ‘Cherry Dots’: Known for its variegated leaves with creamy white edges and green centers, this cultivar also produces charming pink flowers with white dots.
  • ‘Pineapple Frosting’: Has leaves with a striking variegation pattern of creamy yellow and green, complemented by pale yellow flowers.
  • ‘Lila Nova’: Features variegated leaves with a mix of white, green, and pink hues, along with lavender flowers that have a slight ruffle.

d. Spoon-Shaped Leaf Shapes:

  • ‘Little Jewel’: This miniature cultivar has spoon-shaped leaves that curl slightly at the edges, giving it a unique appearance. The flowers are a lovely shade of lavender.
  • ‘Spoonerella’: Another cultivar with distinct spoon-shaped leaves, this one has bright pink flowers and a compact growth habit.

3. Growth Habit Varieties

a. Miniature Cultivars:

  • ‘Tiny Tinkerbell’: One of the smallest African violet cultivars, ‘Tiny Tinkerbell’ grows to only a few inches in diameter and produces tiny lavender flowers.
  • ‘Mini Moonlight’: A miniature cultivar with white flowers and small, dark green leaves. It’s perfect for growing in small pots or terrariums.
  • ‘Micro Dusty’: This micro-miniature cultivar has dusty rose-colored flowers and very small, almost heart-shaped leaves.

b. Semi-Miniature Cultivars:

  • ‘Rob’s Sugar Daddy’: A semi-miniature cultivar with large, white flowers and dark green leaves. It’s known for its prolific blooming and compact growth.
  • ‘Blushing Beauty’: Features semi-miniature-sized plants with blush-pink flowers and slightly variegated leaves.

c. Standard Size Cultivars:

  • ‘Blue Champion’: A standard-size cultivar with large, deep blue flowers and lush, dark green leaves. It’s a reliable bloomer and a favorite among enthusiasts.
  • ‘Pink Fantasy’: Known for its large, double pink flowers and robust growth habit, this cultivar is a standout in any collection.

d. Trailing Cultivars:

  • ‘Trailing Amethyst’: A trailing cultivar with purple flowers and a cascading growth habit, making it ideal for hanging baskets or tall containers.
  • ‘Trailblazer’: Features trailing stems with clusters of white flowers and medium-green leaves. It can be trained to grow over the edges of pots or window boxes.

4. Special Trait Cultivars

a. Double-Flowered Cultivars:

  • ‘Double Delight’: As the name suggests, this cultivar produces fully double flowers with layers of petals, available in various colors including pink, purple, and white.
  • ‘Double Frost’: Features large, double white flowers with a slight ruffle on the edges, giving it a frosted appearance.

b. Frilled/Crested Flowers:

  • ‘Frilly Fingers’: Known for its frilled, crested flowers with intricate petal formations. The flowers come in shades of lavender and pink, with dark green leaves.
  • ‘Crested Beauty’: This cultivar has crested flowers with a unique, textured appearance, paired with medium-green leaves.

c. Fragrant Cultivars:

  • ‘Fragrant Blue’: One of the few fragrant African violet cultivars, ‘Fragrant Blue’ has a light, sweet scent emanating from its deep blue flowers.
  • ‘Perfume Party’: Features lightly scented pink flowers and dark green leaves. The fragrance is most noticeable when the flowers are freshly opened.

5. Popular Series and Collections

a. Optimara Series:

  • The Optimara series includes many popular cultivars known for their exceptional performance and ease of care. Examples include:
    • ‘Optimara Little Angel’ : A compact, easy-to-grow cultivar with lavender flowers.
    • ‘Optimara Rainbow’ : Features multicolored flowers with a range of hues from pink to purple.

b. Rob’s Series:

  • The Rob’s series, developed by hybridizer Rob Robinson, includes numerous award-winning cultivars. Some notable ones are:
    • ‘Rob’s Happy Harold’ : A vigorous grower with blue flowers and broad leaves.
    • ‘Rob’s Sugar Daddy’ : A semi-miniature cultivar with white flowers and dark green leaves.

c. Cape Cod Series:

  • The Cape Cod series focuses on producing hardy, reliable cultivars suitable for both indoor and outdoor cultivation (in warmer climates). Examples include:
    • ‘Cape Cod Sunset’ : Known for its orange-red flowers and dark green leaves.
    • ‘Cape Cod Dawn’ : Features pale yellow flowers and medium-green leaves.

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