Finding Large African Violets for Sale

People love African violets as houseplants because of their pretty flowers and soft leaves. Most types of African violets grow to be 4 to 8 inches across, but some extra-large types can get over 12 inches across. If you want to make a statement with big, beautiful blooms, large African violets are a great choice. Read on to learn how to take care of big African violets and where to buy them.

What Makes African Violets Large?

There are a few factors that contribute to African violets growing larger than average

• Genetics – Some African violet varieties are genetically predisposed to grow larger. Selective breeding has produced jumbo or giant varieties.

• Maturity – Mature African violet plants that are several years old tend to be much larger than younger plants

• Ideal Growing Conditions—Giving African violets the right amount of light, water, humidity, and fertilizer lets them grow to their fullest size.

• Frequent Reblooming – Deadheading spent blooms prompts African violets to rebloom more frequently, promoting growth.

Tips for Growing Large African Violets

If you want your African violets to grow big and bold, keep these tips in mind:

• Pot Size—Plant in a pot that’s at least 4 inches wide and the right size for the plant. Re-pot annually in slightly larger pots.

• Bright Light—Place them in a window that faces east or west so they get bright, indirect light. Rotate periodically.

• Humidity – Set pots on pebble trays or use a humidifier to maintain 40-50% humidity.

• Watering – Water from the bottom when the top inch of soil is dry. Don’t let sit in water.

• Fertilizer – Use African violet fertilizer at 1/4 strength every 2-4 weeks in the growing season.

• Deadheading – Remove spent blooms and old leaves regularly to encourage new growth.

• Pinching – Pinching off the center rosette will produce a bushier, fuller plant.

Where to Find Large African Violets for Sale

Now that you know how to grow them big, here are some places to find large African violet varieties available for purchase:

• Specialty nurseries – Check with local independent garden centers specializing in African violets.

• Online retailers – There are sites dedicated to African violets that sell plants via mail order.

• Big box stores – Sometimes mass merchants like Home Depot or Lowes will carry large blooming African violets seasonally.

• Farmer’s markets – You may find vendors selling African violets at indoor farmer’s markets.

• African violet societies – Local clubs are great resources for finding rare or exotic varieties.

• Swaps – Enthusiasts often trade cuttings and divisions of their prized African violets.

When browsing for large African violets, look for descriptions like “jumbo,” “giant,” or “extra-large.” Popular big blooming varieties include ‘Blue Mammoth,’ ‘Colossus Pink,’ and ‘Giant Champion Blue.’ With the right care and conditions, these big beauties can grow leaves up to 14 inches wide and display blooms over 2 inches in diameter!