The Spruce / K. Dave
Persian violets are short-livedbiennialflowering plants (they only last two growing seasons).
Often grown as a houseplant, these violets can also be grown outdoors in tropical and subtropical regions.
The fast-growing plant remains fairly small, but it is quite eye-catching.
The Spruce / K. Dave
It sports lots of petite, ovate, glossy dark green leaves.
Sometimes the plant dies after its first bloom is finished, even within its growing zones.
Persian violets generally dont have any serious issues with pests or diseases.
The Spruce / K. Dave
But keep an eye out for spider mites.
Check for leaf damage and webbing along the plant, and treat any issues as soon as they arise.
Light
These plants prefer bright, indirect light to grow and flower at their best.
The Spruce / K. Dave
But full sun, especially afternoon sun, is too much for them and can scorch their foliage.
When grown as a houseplant, bright areas near windows (but out of direct sun) are ideal.
Soil
The plants grow naturally in rocky soil.
They can tolerate a variety of soil types as long as they have good drainage.
They also like a slightly acidic soil pH.
For potted Persian violets, an African violet potting mix is suitable.
Water
Persian violets like soil that is consistently moist but not soggy.
And they prefer watering with room-temperature water, as cold water can shock them.
Temperature and Humidity
These flowers like mild temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
They can tolerate warmer temperatures with adequate moisture and shade.
But a cold snap can quickly kill them.
As houseplants, protect your Persian violet from drafts and air blowing from heaters and air conditioners.
Moreover, Persian violets prefer a humidity level of at least 50 percent.
To raise the humidity around a potted plant, place it on a tray filled with pebbles and water.
But check that the bottom of the pot isnt touching the water, which can cause root rot.
A humidifier in the room with your violet also can benefit it.
However, many people find that the plants they buy in garden centers are already root-bound.
Plants in this condition will grow more slowly and bloom less vigorously than others with sufficient space.
Then, water the plant to evenly moisten the soil.
These pests are so tiny that their presence may only be revealed by the webs they weave among leaves.
Of course, an infestation of leaf-sucking spider mites will also result in wilting, yellowing leaves.
How to Get Persian Violets to Bloom
Remove spent flowers to encourage further blooming.
Optimal humidity will help to prolong your plants bloom period.
Common Problems with Persian Violets
Wilting leaves are often a result of water issues.
They are very vulnerable to root rot due to overwatering.
But on the other end of the spectrum, they will readily wilt if they are thirsty.
This is tricky because root rot also can cause wilting.
If your violet is wilting and the soil is moist, youre likely watering too much.
Most Persian violets wont recover from root rot, so its best to start with a new plant.
The delicate flowers and leaves of Persian violets are edible and make a lovely addition to summer salads.
Humid conditions are best for Persian violets, but they don’t generally like to have wet leaves.
