Hybrids of the African violet from Tanzania make ever-popular indoor plants, due both to their compact size and long flowering period. The velvety leaves are up to 1 ½ in. (4 cm) across, slightly scalloped around the edges, with erect hairs on the upper surface, and colored red-maroon beneath. Clusters of flowers are produced on upright stalks, to 2 in. (5 cm) long, in shades of purple, violet, blue, mauve, and white.
Size: Up to 1 ft. (30 cm) across.
Light: Indirect sunlight.
Temperature: Normal room; protect from drafts and temperature changes or growth will be checked.
Moisture: Keep moist, but not wet.
Feeding: Use standard liquid fertilizer every two weeks from sprint; through to fall.
Propagation: Take whole leafstalk cuttings.
Special needs: The leaves and flowers are easily damaged by water falling on them, so always water from below and never mist. Increase humidity by placing the pot on a tray of moist pebbles instead. Saintpaulias grow best slightly pot-bound in plastic pots.