African Violet

African violets were discovered in the Usambara Mountains in 1892 and conquered the world's windowsills within a generation. They're the rare houseplant that flowers nearly continuously — velvet-leaved rosettes ringed with purple, pink, or white blooms.

Care. Bright indirect light (an east or west window) keeps blooms coming; the classic trick is 12–14 hours under a simple grow light. Water from below or carefully from the side — cold water on the fuzzy leaves leaves permanent spots. Keep lightly moist with a light violet mix; feed with diluted fertilizer monthly for constant bloom. They enjoy tight pots — repot rarely.

Watch for: ring spots on leaves (cold water — the classic mistake), no blooms (insufficient light), and powdery mildew (improve airflow). Non-toxic to cats and dogs — blooms and all.