Persian Violet: Sweet-Scented Blue Blooms for Cool, Bright Rooms

Botanical Name: Exacum affine

Not a true violet (it's in the gentian family), Persian violet forms a mound of small, glossy green leaves studded with violet-blue, 5-petaled flowers with yellow "eyes" — wonderfully fragrant. White, purple, and double-flowered varieties exist. Usually sold in bloom in spring/summer as a temporary indoor plant (biennial grown as annual).

Extending the Show

Deadhead and Keep Moist

Pinch faded flowers for more blooms. Keep soil evenly moist, never soggy. Dry soil fades flowers fast. Wilting despite watering = root rot (common).

Bright Light, High Humidity

Bright light, no hot afternoon sun. High humidity essential — pebble tray or mist with room-temp water. Cool nights (65–75°F / 18–24°C), no drafts.

Overwintering (If You Try)

Prune back hard, keep above 60°F (16°C). Collect seeds second year.

Quick Reference: Persian Violet Care

• Origin: Socotra Island (near East Africa)
• Height: 8–12 in (20–30 cm)
• Light: Bright; some morning sun OK, no hot afternoon sun
• Water: Evenly moist, not soggy
• Humidity: High; pebble tray or mist
• Temperature: 65–75°F (18–24°C); no drafts
• Soil: African violet mix or peat-based mix
• Fertilizer: Balanced liquid every 2 weeks while blooming, diluted by half
• Propagation: Tiny seeds on moist mix in shallow pot; germinate 2–3 weeks. Sow winter/early spring.