Saintpaulia — 17 species

Saintpaulia — African violets — are compact East African gesneriads that bloom almost year-round in shades of violet, pink, white, and bicolor. They need bright, indirect light from an east- or north-facing window (direct midday sun scorches the soft, hairy leaves) and prefer to be watered from the base every seven to ten days, keeping foliage dry to prevent spotting. Miniature and cliff-dwelling species like the Taita African violet share the same basic rhythm. The ASPCA confirms that Saintpaulia is non-toxic to cats, dogs, and horses — one of the most reliably pet-safe flowering houseplants available.