Persian Violet Care Instructions

Taxonomic Name: Exacum affine

Gentian Family

Herbaceous Plant

In recent years, the Persian violet has sprung into the houseplant spotlight, thanks to the appeal of its cheerful blue blossoms and its full, rounded mass of lime-green foliage. Like most fancy flowering plants intended for indoor use, the Persian violet is most often treated as an annual--once its extended blooming period is finally done, the plant is discarded. Nevertheless, some indoor gardeners do keep their plants for the long term, and even succeed in getting them to flower a second time.

How to Care for Your Plant:

LIGHT: Bright but indirect sunlight is best; try an unobstructed northern or eastern windowsill, or a partially shaded western or southern windowsill. 

WATERING: Make sure the soil surface dries between waterings. When the soil surface is dry to the touch, water the plant thoroughly. At least a little water should come out of the pot's bottom drainage holes, but the plant should not stand in saucer water for more than thirty minutes.  

FEEDING: During flowering, and only during flowering, use a high-phosphorus (high middle number) houseplant fertilizer at half the concentration and frequency listed in the product directions.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS: To keep your plant blooming longer, pinch off spent flowers. Persian violets enjoy high humidity; consider using a water-filled gravel tray under the plant, especially in winter.