African Violets (or Saintpaulia) are a genus of the plant family Gesnariad.  They were originally brought from Africa in 1892.  The plant is a staple of the American Household, although many people have no idea how to care for these beautiful plants.

Did you know that there are different varieties of African Violets?  The standard violet that you can buy at your local Lowes is just that, a standard African Violet.  There are also Trailing Violets and Miniature Violets that are all the more beautiful for their inherent uniqueness.  You can check out many types of violets at the Violet Barn,

http://www.violetbarn.com.  To care for your violets, place them in a bright spot in a west or south facing window where they can get plenty of bright, indirect light (or direct light is ok if it is weaker evening or afternoon light).  Water them only from the bottom by placing them in a pan of water for about an hour, or by keeping their pot in a pebble filled pan with a constant supply of water.  Do not get water on the leaves of your African violet, as this may cause spotting and unsightly blemishes on the velvety green texture.

African violets like high humidity and warmer temperatures.  Do not place them near a conductive window during winter, as the air will get too cold and dry for the violet.  Much valuable information on their propagation, identification, care and life-cycle can be found at the African Violet Society of America, as well.

African Violets are my favorite indoor flower, but there is much more to flower gardening than African Violets alone!

 

 

 

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