Plant Passport
African Violet
Saintpaulia ionantha
LightBright
Water7-10d
PetCheck
PP SAIN TPAU LIAI
Issued 2026 · Valid while cared for
African Violet
Kaaps viooltje
Saintpaulia ionantha
Also known as Streptocarpus ionanthus
“Keep my crown dry and my light steady; I reward routine with flowers.”
pet safefloweringcompactgift plantsmall space
- Light
- Medium light
- Water
- Keep lightly moist
- Pet safety
- Pet safe
- This month
- Finish the strongest growth flush with one more light feed. Review support or pruning needs for the rosette shape before tired leaves hide pests Cue: Compact fuzzy rosette with rounded dark leaves and vio.
August care tip
Finish the strongest growth flush with one more light feed. Review support or pruning needs for the rosette shape before tired leaves hide pests Cue: Compact fuzzy rosette with rounded dark leaves and vio.
Quick Care Summary
- Light
- Medium light
- Water
- Keep lightly moist
- Placement
- Best in a warm east or north-east windowsill with steady soft light, protected from harsh midday sun and cold draughts.
- Temperature
- 16–27°C
- Humidity
- moderate
Free printable Plant Passport card
Print, cut, and place this African Violet card in the pot. Add the physical card if you want the finished version.
Printable card preview
Compare the simple formats before you download the free card or add a finished card above.
Plant Passport
African Violet
LightBright
Water7-10d
Botanical stake card
- Format
- 150 x 25mm
- Best for
- Slim plant stakes and gift pots
Use the card section above when you are ready to download or add a printed card.
Protect the printed card
Waterproof badge holders keep the free printable card readable through every watering.
View holders →Detailed Care Guide
Watering Method
Water when the upper mix starts to dry, then drain fully so roots get air again.
Soil Mix
fine airy African-violet mix kept evenly moist but never waterlogged
Repotting
Repot or refresh the top layer in spring when roots are active.
Pruning
Prune lightly during active growth and remove damaged leaves promptly.
Pot Preference
Use a pot with drainage; choose weight and size to match the plant's top growth.
Fertilizing
Feed lightly from March to September; skip fertilizer in winter or during cool rest.
Draft Sensitivity
Keep above 16 C and away from sharp cold draughts.
Sources consulted
- powo.science.kew.org
- www.aspca.org
- www.rhs.org.uk
Room Placement
Window Direction
East or west filtered light, or a bright spot set back from south glass.
Best Room
a warm east or north-east windowsill with steady soft light
Monthly Care Calendar
Aug (now)
Finish the strongest growth flush with one more light feed. Review support or pruning needs for the rosette shape before tired leaves hide pests Cue: Compact fuzzy rosette with rounded dark leaves and vio.
Sep
Start reducing fertilizer and stretch watering as nights cool. Move African Violet closer to bright filtered light before autumn light drops Cue: Compact fuzzy rosette with rounded dark leaves and vio.
Oct
Stop feeding and prepare for heating season. Keep temperature steady and avoid cold drafts Cue: Compact fuzzy rosette with rounded dark leaves and vio.
Nov
Winter risk check: test soil before watering, inspect compact fuzzy rosette with rounded dark leaves and violet, and keep the pot draining freely while growth slows Cue: Compact fuzzy rosette with rounded dark leaves and vio.
Watering Schedule
- Summer
- Every 5 days
- Winter
- Every 10 days
Feel the upper third of the mix and water when it is just starting to dry.
Common Problems
Propagation
stem cuttings in soileasyspring
Propagate during active growth, keep the material warm and lightly moist, and wait for new growth before potting on.
Pests & Diseases
Spider mites
Early signs
Fine speckling, sticky residue or webbing on stressed new growth.
Treatment
Rinse or wipe leaves, isolate the plant and repeat treatment weekly until clear.
Mealybugs
Early signs
Cottony clusters, scale-like bumps or sour smell near the crown and leaf joints.
Treatment
Remove visible pests, improve airflow and check roots if the problem returns.
Buying Tips
Choose African Violet with clean growth, firm stems and no pests in the leaf joints.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fun Facts
Modern taxonomy often places African violets in Streptocarpus, but the classic houseplant name remains Saintpaulia.
Origin & Natural Habitat
Native to shaded rocky forests of East Africa, where soft light and even moisture are typical.
Plants with similar care
Want cards for more plants?
Move from one free card to a ready-to-use set.