African Violet

Description

On the intense green of the velvety, heart-shaped leaves, arranged in rosettes, stand out the small blue, pink or white flowers, single or double.

Cultivation

If they find the right environment, African violets remain in flower for most of the year. They require good light, but not sunlight. Place outdoors in summer but in the shade, away from wind and storms. They prefer mild temperatures not below 18°. The ideal substratum should consist of universal soil lightened by sand. African violets prefer small pots. Water very moderately in winter but more abundantly during the vegetative period in order to keep the soil humid but not drenched with water. A well-drained pot is very important. When watering, always use water at room temperature and be careful not to get water on the delicate, velvet upper side of the leaves. It is better to place water in the saucer under the flowerpot. It is sufficient to fertilise about once a month.

Propagation

The most common method of propagation is by leaf cuttings rooted in water or in sand kept moist.