African Violet Care Guide
Streptocarpus ionanthus
Quick Answer
African Violet needs watering every 1 week in summer and every 1–2 weeks in winter. It thrives in bright indirect and temperatures of 60–75°F. Difficulty: Moderate. ✅ Non-toxic to pets.
⭐Difficulty
Moderate
☀️Light
Bright indirect
💧Watering
Every 1 week
🌫️Humidity
Medium–High (50–60%)
🌡️Temperature
60–75°F
📈Growth Rate
Moderate
Toxicity
Source: ASPCA Animal Poison Control
Watering
Summer
Every 1 week
Winter
Every 1–2 weeks
Method: Bottom watering preferred; keep leaves dry
Light Requirements
Bright indirect
Needs bright indirect light to bloom. African violet grow lights ideal.
Soil & Potting
Soil: African violet potting mix
Pot: Small pot (1/3 the diameter of leaf spread); self-watering ideal
Temperature & Humidity
Temperature: 60–75°F (16–24°C)
Humidity: Medium–High (50–60%)
Fertilizing
Frequency: Every 2 weeks spring/summer; monthly winter
Type: African violet fertilizer (high phosphorus)
Common Problems
No blooms → Needs more light or different fertilizer (use high-phosphorus).
Yellow leaves → Too much direct sun. Move back from window.
Brown spots on leaves → Cold water splash. Always use room temperature water.
Mushy crown → Crown rot from water on center. Bottom-water only.
Propagation
Leaf cuttings (with petiole)
Seasonal Care Calendar
🌸 Spring
Repot if needed — spring is ideal. Increase watering and fertilizing as light improves.
☀️ Summer
Maintain consistent humidity and temperature. Bottom-water only. Fertilize every 2 weeks.
🍂 Fall
Continue regular care. African violets don't have a true dormancy — they bloom year-round.
❄️ Winter
May slow slightly. Maintain grow light to keep blooming through shorter days.