From my perspective as an African Violet, light is my lifeblood. It is the energy source that fuels my growth and the beautiful blooms you so admire. However, I am not a sun worshipper like a cactus. My native habitat is the dappled shade of the forest floor in Tanzania. Therefore, I need bright, but indirect, light. A north or east-facing window is my ideal spot. The gentle morning sun from an east window is perfect. If I must be placed in a south or west window, please shield me with a sheer curtain. Direct afternoon sun will scorch my delicate leaves, leaving unsightly brown spots. If you see my leaves becoming dark green and leggy, I am stretching out, desperately searching for more light.
I thrive in the same comfortable temperatures that you do. A consistent room temperature between 65°F and 75°F (18°C - 24°C) is my sweet spot. I am highly sensitive to sudden changes. Please keep me away from drafty areas, such as frequently opened doors, air conditioning vents, or leaky windows. Similarly, do not place me directly above a radiator or heating vent, as the intense, dry heat will dehydrate me and cause my buds to drop before they can open. A stable, draft-free environment makes me feel secure and allows me to focus my energy on vibrant growth.
While my fuzzy leaves help conserve water, I originally come from a humid climate. The air in most modern homes, especially during winter, is too dry for my liking. Low humidity can cause my leaf tips to turn brown and make my flowers wilt prematurely. You can help me by placing my pot on a pebble tray filled with water (ensure the pot is on the pebbles, not sitting in the water). Grouping me with other plants also creates a beneficial microclimate of shared humidity. Just avoid misting my leaves directly, as water sitting in my crown can lead to rot and unsightly leaf spots.
I appreciate a location with gentle air circulation, as stagnant air can encourage fungal diseases. However, I do not enjoy being in the path of strong, direct gusts. Furthermore, I am a sensitive plant. Please place me in a low-traffic area where my leaves won’t be constantly brushed against or damaged by passersby. This also minimizes the chance of my pot being accidentally knocked over. A quiet spot on a side table, a dedicated plant shelf, or an office desk away from the main hustle and bustle allows me to grow peacefully without stress.
