Plants
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African Violet (Saintpaulia)
Flowering (Gesneriads)Common houseplants

African Violet (Saintpaulia)

Saintpaulia ionantha

Lighting
5/10
Humidity
4/10
Water group
Aroids and standard
SensitivityMedium
Target pH6.0-6.5
PPM with fertilizer120-150
About this group →
Lighting
Range, lux3000–12000
Optimal, lux8000
Photoperiod, h12-14
Direct sun✕
Humidity
Medium (50-60%)
Trays with water/humidifier. Do NOT mist the leaves
DO NOT MIST!
Watering
FrequencyModerate
MethodWick / in a tray

Water from below or along the pot edge. Do not let water onto the leaf rosette

Wick wateringAcceptable

Recommended — stable moisture, water does not get on the leaves

Soil
for African violets / gesneriads
Mix #14
Open mix →
Feeding group
Common houseplants
Fertilizers & additives →

Risks & warnings

  • Spots on leaves when water gets on them
  • Petiole rot from overwatering
  • Stretches and does not bloom with insufficient light

Care notes

  • •Do NOT mist the leaves — spots remain and they rot
  • •Water only at the root or through a tray/wick
  • •Sensitive to cold water (water with warm, room-temperature water)
  • •Does not tolerate direct sun — it scorches the leaves
  • •Abundant blooming needs a 12-14 hour day length