Free Saintpaulia Ionantha Hybrids Plants

The Saintpaulia is available in a wide range of flower colours from white through to purple. If conditions are right the plant can flower for many months, sometimes all year round, with just a short break between each flowering. Plants that refuse to flower successively should be kept a little drier for a while. Although the Saintpaulia requires high humidity, its foliage should not be misted as water droplets will mark the leaves and can also cause scorching. It is therefore best to create a humid environment for the plant, by growing it in a bowl or trough arrangement.

Plant type : Flowering plant with prostrate habit
Season of interest : Various times throughout year
Size : 7.5-12.5cm (3—5in) high, 10-15cm (4-6in) wide
Flower : White, pink, rose, blue or purple, occasionally two-toned, single or double, 2.5cm (1 in)
Leaf : Rounded heart-shaped, 4-5cm (1.5-2in), mid to dark green, hairy, on 5-7.5cm (2—3in) fleshy stalks
Temperature : 18-22°C (64—72°F)
Aspect/Light : Moderate light away from direct sun
Humidity : High
Watering : Evenly moisten compost throughout year, allowing to dry a little before re¬watering; always water into saucer
Feeding : Once every two to four weeks with half strength flowering plant fertilizer in spring and summer
Propagation : Plant leaf cuttings in seed and cutting compost at 21 -24°C (70—75°F) at any time of the year, although mid spring to early summer is best period; sow seeds as above; divide and plant as above
Potting : Houseplant potting compost
Problems : Aphid, tarsonemid mite, mealy bug, mildew, botrytis
Availability : Commonly available throughout year
Uses indoors : Good feature plant for lounge or trough, planter or bowl garden; can also do well in kitchen or bathroom