come in a large variety of colors

using warm or room temperature water African violets (Saintpaulia) are fairly common houseplants because they are easy to care for, bloom frequently and come in a large variety of colors, leaf sunday patterns and flower styles.

Water is one area where I differ from most African violet aficionados. The true collectors recommend checking the soil daily, watering when the soil feels dry to the touch and using warm or room temperature water.

While they may be watered from the top or bottom, top watering should be done under the leaves — never on the leaves. With this task accomplished I can look forward to the Philadelphia Flower Show (March 6-13), where I usually get at least a few new African violets during my visit.