African Violet Saintpaulia ionantha
At a glance
- Light
- Bright indirect
- 8000–12000 lux
- Water
- Every 7–10 days
- Top of soil dry to touch
- Humidity
- 50–70%
- Temperature
- 16–27°C
- Ideal 18–24°C
- Soil pH
- 6–6.5
- well-draining
- Mature size
- 15 cm tall
- 30 cm wide
- Native to
- Tanzania, Kenya
- Growth
- Slow
- Rosette
Watering calculator
Estimate how often to water your African Violet based on pot size, light, and season.
Always check the top 2 cm of soil before watering. Calculator output is an estimate, not a schedule.
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Light requirements in detail
African Violet prefers bright indirect (8000–12000 lux) . East-facing window is ideal; direct sun bleaches leaves and stops blooming
A spot 1–2 meters from a bright east or south-facing window usually fits this range. Direct afternoon sun through unfiltered glass can scorch leaves; sheer curtains help diffuse it.
Watering in detail
Water African Violet every 7– 10 days during the growing season, allowing Top of soil dry to touch to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter when growth slows.
Consistent moisture matters here — long dry spells will show up as crispy leaf edges.
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Frequently asked questions about African Violet
How often should I water African Violet?
Water African Violet every 7–10 days during the growing season, allowing Top of soil dry to touch to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency by 30–50% in winter.
What kind of light does African Violet need?
African Violet prefers bright indirect (8000–12000 lux). East-facing window is ideal; direct sun bleaches leaves and stops blooming
Is African Violet toxic to cats?
African Violet is non-toxic to cats according to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Mild stomach upset is still possible if a cat chews the leaves, but it will not cause poisoning.
Is African Violet toxic to dogs?
African Violet is non-toxic to dogs according to the ASPCA. Mild stomach upset is still possible if a dog chews the leaves.
How big does African Violet grow?
African Violet reaches about 15 cm tall and 30 cm wide at maturity. Growth rate is slow.