How to Grow and Care for Persian Violets

How to Grow and Care for Persian Violets Exacum affine

Persian violets (Exacum affine) are adaptable biennial or short-lived perennials commonly grown as houseplants or as annuals.

These pretty plants grow between six and 12 inches tall and feature small blooms ranging from deep indigo to violet or white, tucked neatly beside shiny green leaves.

The flowers have a sweet, refreshing scent that is not overwhelming.

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Persian violets are relatively easy to propagate and maintain, and are nontoxic, making them ideal for indoor cultivation in homes with pets and children.

Read on to learn more about how to care for these colorful flowering plants.

Persian violets, also known as German violets, grow between six to 12 inches tall with a spread of seven to eight inches, and boast compact indigo, violet, or white blooms with bright yellow pollen masses in the center.

The blooms are surrounded by dark green, waxy leaves arranged in an opposite fashion which provide a pleasing backdrop for the lovely blooms and really make their colors pop!

Persian violets are native to Socotra, a small island in the Yemen archipelago.

Socotra has a subtropical climate with hot, humid summers, and mild winters that usually never dip below 60℉. In their native habitat, Persian violets grow in mountainous, rocky terrain.

If grown as potted plants indoors, Persian violets prefer temperatures ranging from 60 to 80℉. However, they can withstand temperatures as low as 55℉.

They can also be grown as a lovely annual ground cover or outdoor hanging plant in cooler regions.

Whether grown indoors or outdoors, these plants