Since the 1920's hundreds of cultivars have been developed with an immense variety of flower and leaf colors, shapes, and sizes. Leaf types include plain, ruffled, fringed, scalloped, spooned, pointed, and variegated. No matter which flower color, leaf type, or habit you select, the care for all types of African violets is similar. While these are relatively easy to grow houseplants, they do require consistent care. Light Proper light is essential for good bloom.
African violets require more light than most growers first realize.
Thin, dark, blue-green leaves with long petioles indicate insufficient light levels. While moderate light is needed, direct light for long periods can be damaging as well. Too much light produces leaves that are small, crinkled, leathery, and yellow with short petioles on stunted plants. Generally, north and eastern exposures are best for African violets. However, if these exposures are not possible, African violets perform beautifully under artificial lights as well.