Houseplant
African Violet
Streptocarpus ionanthus
Traits
Varieties We Carry
StandardStreptocarpus ionanthus
Sizes & Pricing
4 inFrom$5.95
1 galFrom$19.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Mar 4.
LightPart Shade
WaterModerate
Mature size6-8 inches × 6-8 inches
About African Violet
African violet (Streptocarpus ionanthus) is a compact, rosette-forming houseplant native to the cloud forests of East Africa, prized for its velvety, dark green leaves and cheerful clusters of violet, pink, or white flowers. One of the most popular flowering houseplants, it blooms repeatedly throughout the year. Starting at $5.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
- Flower Color
- White, Pink, Purple, Multi
- Growth Rate
- Slow
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Acidic, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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This monthGood windowOther months
Seasonal care
Bloom season. Good planting window.
Bloom season. Can be planted with extra attention to watering.
Bloom season. Ideal planting window.
Bloom season. Retains foliage through winter. Can be planted in mild winter periods.
Care essentials
Light
African violet is strictly an indoor houseplant in NE Florida; place near an east- or west-facing window for bright, indirect light. Direct Florida sun will scorch the velvety leaves, and deep shade reduces flowering.
Water
Water African violet when the top inch of soil feels dry, using room-temperature water poured at the base rather than overhead to avoid leaf spotting and rot. In NE Florida's humid summers, allow slightly more drying between waterings to prevent crown rot.
Soil & Fertilizer
Use a well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix formulated for African violets or a peat-perlite blend. Feed every 2–4 weeks with a high-phosphorus liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength to encourage continuous blooming. Keep indoors year-round in NE Florida.
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Common questions
Is African Violet a good plant for St. Augustine?
African Violet is a houseplant for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 6-8 inches × 6-8 inches.