Monday, May 27, 2013

These Aren't Your Grandma's Violets

My mini African violets on the counter with a light under cupboards above.
I love African violets! I think that might have been established by now. I'm in two African violet societies and a member of the African Violet Society of America. I'm a little obsessed. I think that might have been mentioned before, as well. I know some people still think of them as "Grandma plants" and wouldn't have one in their home, but I'm going to show you  plants your Grandma could have only dreamed of. Following are some pictures of the violets that have been blooming here in the last couple of months. I have many more pictures, but thought you'd probably fall asleep if I showed you all of them. They are beautiful....

'Cabbage Patch' African violet from the back.


'Harmony's Frilly Dealy'
I have to admit that I have plenty of pink and green varieties. They are my favorites. 'Harmony's Frilly Dealy' is probably at the top of the list. I also like variegated foliage. When the flowers are out of bloom, they are still attractive.



'Irish Rose'
'Rob's Antique Rose'
One of Optimara's MyViolets
This violet is only 2' across.
'Festive Holiday' mini violet.

'Rob's Combustible Pigeon'

I especially appreciate the mini violets. They take up less room in a house already crammed full of plants and they are just so cute!


'Gleeful Elf'
Love this foliage!




Yellow violet.


















If you still think African violets are old fashioned and not your style, I'm sorry. You don't know what you are missing. Having plants in your house which are almost constantly in bloom and only ask to be watered, fertilized, and have the right light is a no brainer in my opinion. I'm going to keep collecting them and I hope you see the beauty and buy a couple , as well.

2 comments:

  1. I LOVE violets. It hurts everytime I read that people hate them because they're "grandmother's plants". Even if true, how is this a bad thing, I can't understand. The plants are great and their flowers are absolutely beautiful. I've been collecting them back when I was living with my parents and I hope to grow them someday when I have a family/home of my own. The conditions in my tiny appartment aren't good for them..
    You have beautiful plants!

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  2. I agree Rika! It isn't an insult to me to be compared to my Grandma! They are lovely plants and beautiful flowers. Thanks so much for your comment!

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