African Violets

and other Gesneriaceae

African Violets are mostly grown indoors, even in South East Queensland. They can be a little challenging to grow and to flower, but success will be very rewarding of those who try them. They were previously classified as Saintpaulia ionantha but are now considered a subgroup of Streptocarpus (Streptocarpus sect. Saintpaulia)

Streptocarpus contains other species that are also grown as flowering pot plants. Other cultivated genera in this family include Achimenes, Aeschynanthus, Columnea, Gloxinia.

As these are popular houseplants around the world, you will find plenty of general cultivation information if you search online. From a Queensland perspective, two biggest problems are probably the risk of giving these too much direct sunlight and finding them available to buy.