African Violets

The African violet (Saintpaulia ionantha) can be one of the most satisfying flowering houseplants. It is a low, compact plant with attractive dark green, thick, hairy leaves. The violet-like flowers are borne in small panicles just above the foliage. Cultivars are available with pink, fuschia and white flowers, as well as the more traditional shades of blue-violet. Newer violets include cultivars with semi-double or double rows of petals. Bi-colored flowers and those with a contrasting border are popular. Trailing cultivars and miniatures are also available. Plants kept in good condition flower almost continuously.