Plant guide
アフリカンバイオレット
Watering rhythm
Every 5–7 days
African Violets are compact, long-lived plants native to Africa, prized for their soft, velvety leaves and flowers in rich shades of purple, pink, and white. They're natural indoor growers and quite sensitive to temperature fluctuations, so they thrive best in consistently warm conditions year-round. Many varieties are beginner-friendly, making them a great choice if you're new to houseplants.
Bright indirect light is ideal—avoid direct sun. Keep temperatures between 16–24°C (60–75°F), and don't let them drop below 10°C (50°F). Humidity around 40–60% works best. Place your plant somewhere with good air circulation, away from direct drafts from heating or air conditioning, and it'll reward you with long-lasting blooms.
Light and temperature change a plant's metabolism, so the ideal cadence shifts with the seasons.
Spring
Every 5–6 days
Summer
Every 4–5 days
Autumn
Every 5–7 days
Winter
Every 8–10 days
Water when the soil surface feels dry to the touch, but pour gently at the base of the plant—wet leaves can develop spots. Always empty any water that collects in the saucer to prevent root rot. Get into the habit of checking the soil moisture with your finger; this simple step will help you find your rhythm with watering.
Quick lookup from symptom to likely cause and action.
| Symptom | Likely cause | What to try |
|---|---|---|
| White powder appears on the leaves | This is powdery mildew, a fungal issue that thrives in humid, poorly ventilated conditions. | Gently wipe affected leaves clean and improve air circulation around the plant. If it's severe, consider using a fungicide. |
| Leaves look wilted or discolored | Root rot, usually from overwatering or water sitting in the saucer for too long. | Hold back on watering until the soil dries out completely. If the plant doesn't bounce back, repotting into fresh soil is worth considering. |
| Flower buds fall off without opening | Insufficient light, temperatures that are too low, or nutrient deficiency. | Move your plant to a brighter spot and maintain temperatures above 16°C (60°F). During the blooming season, feeding with diluted fertilizer can help encourage flowers. |
| Black spots develop on the leaves | Water left on the leaves has allowed bacteria or fungus to develop. | Remove affected leaves and water only at the base going forward. Improve air circulation to help the foliage dry faster. |
| Leaves appear pale and thin | Not enough light or insufficient feeding. | Move the plant to a spot with better bright indirect light. During the growing season, apply diluted liquid fertilizer once or twice a month for best results. |
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