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African Violet (Saintpaulia 'Chimaera' )

Perennials

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African Violet (Saintpaulia 'Chimaera' )

African violets - or saintpaulias - have branched out in their relative looks in recent years and are still as popular as ever as houseplants. They always look good on a window-sill but can be a little finicky to encourage into flower. With well over 2000 cultivars you are spoilt for choice.
Price: Expect to pay about £2-£4 for a flowering plant.

The Knowledge

Plant Type: Houseplant, perennial
Height: 10.10cm(4in)
Spread: 17.78cm(7in)
Situation: Sunny windowsill in winter only
Soil Type: Rich

The range of patterns and colours in African violets is amazing with some such as this illustrated being extra 'zany'. Traditionally these plants were, as the common name suggests, violet, but there are plenty of variations into all the shades of blue, and into red and white.

For the indulgent there are actually five different types of African violet ranging from the tiniest with their leaf rosettes no greater than about 7.62cm (3in) to 'large' no bigger than 40.64cm(16in). Check out for varieties that have semi-double or double flowers, or for trailing African violets for something completely different.

Looking Good:
Go to see these amazing African tropical plants in the Princess Diana Conservatory at Kew Gardens, Richmond at any time of the year.

Best With:
Plant by themselves.