How to Start African Violets from Leafs

African violets are available in many varieties and flower colors.

Almost constantly in bloom, African violets (Saintpaulia spp.) are a step above ordinary foliage houseplants. Their tiny flowers are usually violet or purple but can also be shades of pink or white. African violets thrive and bloom in the home environment, growing well in light levels and room temperatures of private homes.

Things You'll Need

• 2-inch pot
• Vermiculite

Instructions

1. Remove a mature leaf from a healthy African violet plant, including the petiole, which is the small stem that attaches it to the plant.

2. Insert the stem of the leaf into a 2-inch pot filled with vermiculite.

3. Water the growing medium in the pot so it is moist but not saturated.

4. Place the pot in a brightly lit, warm location. Keep the growing medium moist and new plants will form at the base of the leaf in eight to 12 weeks.

References

• North Carolina State University Extension; Plant Propagation; Erv Evans, et al.; January 1999