African Violet Propagation: Leaf Cuttings, Division, and Seed

By Kathee Mierzejewski

Propagation Methods

African violets can be propagated from leaf cuttings (most common), seed, or division.

Growing from Seed

Use peat mixed with perlite, vermiculite, greensand, and Epsom salt for a light medium. Germination takes 8–14 days at soil temperatures of 65–75°F (18–24°C).

Leaf Cuttings (Spring is Best)

1. Remove a healthy leaf with petiole (leaf stem) by cutting or snapping cleanly at the plant base.
2. Trim petiole to 1½ inches.
3. Insert petiole into a hole in the growing medium and water thoroughly.
4. Roots appear at the petiole base in 3–4 weeks.
5. New leaves and plantlets emerge 3–4 weeks after rooting.
6. Repot when plantlets have 2–3 leaves (2–6 months after starting).

Division

Cut the crown so each portion has a piece of the root system. Pot each division in African violet mix.

Conclusion

With these methods, you can easily create new African violet plants to expand your collection or share with friends.