Emm's Plant House

Variegated African Violet - Saintpaulia HOVARIAGATA Ø12cm H15cm

£25.00 GBP

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Saintpaulia HOVARIAGATA is a stunning and elegant variety of African Violet, known for its vibrant, variegated leaves and colorful blooms. The plant features deep green, heart-shaped leaves with creamy white edges, creating a striking contrast with its clusters of purple, blue, or white flowers. Native to East Africa, this low-maintenance, compact plant is perfect for both beginner and experienced plant enthusiasts, adding a pop of color and texture to indoor spaces.

Full Botanical Name: Saintpaulia HOVARIAGATA
Common Names: African Violet
Country and/or Region of Origin: Native to East Africa
Growing Conditions in Native Habitat: Grows in the shady understory of tropical forests, where it thrives in well-draining, organic-rich soil and enjoys filtered light

Care Guide

Care Guide:

Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the delicate leaves, while too little light may result in leggy growth and fewer blooms. Keep it in a well-lit room, away from direct sunlight.

Ideal Room: Ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, or any indoor space with sufficient light and moderate humidity. Perfect for windowsills, desks, or small spaces where it can thrive in indirect light.

Feeding: Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring to summer) with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer designed for African Violets. Reduce feeding during the fall and winter months when the plant is not actively growing.

Humidity: Prefers moderate humidity. Misting the leaves or using a humidity tray can help create the ideal conditions, especially in dry indoor environments.

Ideal Temperature: Best kept between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C). It should be protected from cold drafts and temperatures below 50°F (10°C), as it is sensitive to cold.

Watering: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Use room temperature water and avoid wetting the leaves, as water droplets on the leaves can cause spots or rot. Ensure the plant is in well-draining soil, and avoid allowing it to sit in water.

Pet/Child Safe: Non-toxic to pets and children, making it a safe option for homes with animals or young children.

Soil Type: Use a well-draining, lightweight potting mix formulated for African Violets. A mix containing peat moss and perlite will provide the right balance of moisture retention and drainage.

Propagation: Propagate by leaf cuttings. Take a healthy leaf with a short stem and place it in water or a well-draining soil mix. Once roots have formed, transplant the cutting into its own pot.

Eventual Height and Spread: Typically grows up to 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) tall and 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) wide, making it a compact plant ideal for small spaces, windowsills, or as part of an indoor plant collection.

Growth Rate: Moderate-growing. It will steadily produce new leaves and flowers, though its growth is relatively slow compared to other houseplants.

Pests and Treatment: Generally resistant to pests, but may occasionally attract aphids, mealybugs, or spider mites. Treat any infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil to keep the plant healthy.

Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one to allow healthy root growth, and ensure it has drainage holes to prevent water retention.

Pruning: Prune dead or yellowing leaves regularly to maintain the plant’s appearance and encourage new growth. Removing spent flowers will also help promote more blooms.

Air Purification: While not typically known for air purification, the vibrant color and pleasant blooms of Saintpaulia HOVARIAGATA brighten any indoor space, creating a positive atmosphere and enhancing the ambiance.

Folklore: African Violets are often associated with love, loyalty, and faithfulness. In some cultures, they are believed to bring good luck and are considered symbols of love and friendship.

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