Streptocarpus sect. Saintpaulia: African violets with compact colour
African violets are now treated within Streptocarpus, although the older name Saintpaulia remains common in cultivation. They are compact Gesneriaceae with softly hairy rosette leaves and repeated flower clusters in violet, blue, pink, white and bicolour forms.
They are best approached as small flowering perennials, not as disposable gift plants. Bright indirect light, small pots, a very airy violet mix and lukewarm water kept away from the crown help reduce rot and leaf spotting. Harsh sun, deep shade, cold water on the leaves and heavy wet compost all reduce flowering and shorten the plant’s useful life.
- Light: bright, indirect light or a suitable grow-light setup; harsh direct sun and deep shade both reduce performance.
- Roots: fine roots need a light, open mix and a pot that is not oversized.
- Watering: water carefully when the surface has just dried, avoiding the crown and cold splashes on the leaves.
- Temperature: steady mild warmth supports buds and reduces leaf stress.
