African Violets, scientifically classified under the genus Saintpaulia within the Gesneriaceae family, are not true violets but are cherished for their vibrant and prolonged blooming period. Their classification is primarily based on observable morphological characteristics, which are consistent across the numerous cultivars developed by horticulturists.
From a botanical perspective, the growth habit describes the plant's overall architecture and how it occupies space. African Violets exhibit three primary forms. The Rosette type is the most common, where leaves grow in a circular, layered pattern from a single central crown, creating a symmetrical, ground-hugging mound. The Trailing type is characterized by multiple crowns growing along a horizontal stem (stolon). This habit causes the plant to spread or spill over the edge of its container, producing a cascading effect of leaves and flowers. There is also a less common Single Crown standard type that maintains a solitary growing point.
The foliage of African Violets presents significant variation, offering key diagnostic features for identification. Leaf types are distinguished by several factors. The Variegation refers to patterns of white, cream, or pink coloration on the leaves, which can be crown variegation (center), edge variegation (margins), or mosaic patterning. Leaf Texture can be plain, quilted (with raised areas between veins), spooned (curved upwards at the edges), or deeply ruffled. Furthermore, the Leaf Shape varies greatly, including heart-shaped, oval, pointed, or rounded forms, often described with terms like "girl" (with a white blotch at the base) or "boy" (plain green).
The reproductive structures, specifically the flowers, are the most diverse feature. They are categorized by their form, color, and petal edging. Flower Forms include the single (5 petals), semi-double (6-10 petals), double (more than 10 petals in overlapping layers), and frilled or fringed types. The Color Spectrum is vast, encompassing solid shades of blue, purple, pink, red, white, and even green, as well as multicolored patterns like bi-colors and pinwheels. The Petal Edging adds another layer of diversity, with variations such as plain, ruffled, fluted, or edged in a contrasting color (geneva edge), which is typically white.
African Violets are also grouped by their mature diameter, a practical classification for growers with limited space. The sizes are standardized: Large varieties exceed 16 inches across, Standard types range from 8 to 16 inches, Semi-Miniature plants span 6 to 8 inches, Miniature types grow between 3 and 6 inches, and the smallest, Micro-Miniature, are under 3 inches in diameter at maturity. This size is determined by genetic factors and growing conditions.
