Persian violet

(Exacum affine)

August 1996

DESCRIPTION:

Herbaceous perennial containing numerous branches with groups of shiny, small, oval leaves which are 1" long with tapered ends. Masses of small, fragrant flowers, with stamens of contrasting color.

FLOWER COLORS:

Blue, Violet, White

AFTER FLOWERING:

Remove faded blossoms to encourage longer blooming period. Discard after flowering.

AVAILABLE:

March to August

CONTAINER:

Small container.

LIGHT:

Medium - high. Does well in sunny location, south, east or west windows in places receiving from a thousand footcandles and above.

WATER:

Normal. Water thoroughly, let soil dry to touch to a soil depth of 1/2".

TEMPERATURE:

Cool. 50 - 60 (degrees F) days, 45 - 55 nights.

HUMIDITY:

High

FERTILIZER:

Every 2 weeks while flowering

SOIL MIX:

1 to 2 parts sphagnum peat moss, 1 part vermiculite, 1 part sterilized loam, and 1 part clean coarse sand or Perlite.

PROPOGATION:

Seed (spring)

SELECTION GUIDE:

Select sturdy, shapely plant with healthy foliage and bright, clear colored flowers. New flower buds desirable. Check leaf axils for insects. Avoid plants with disease or insect damage.

CARE:

Very challenging. Attractive while in bloom. Difficult to cultivate year round and rebloom. Usually discarded after blooms fade.

OTHER CULTIVARS:

`Atrocaeruleum' - Flowers dark lavender

PROBLEMS:

Aphids: Wash with soapy water or use an insecticide.
Spider mites: Wash with soapy water and apply miticide.

COMMENTS:

Gift plant Remove faded blossoms to encourage more blooms.

This material was developed by Carol Ness as part of the Interactive Design and Development Project funded by the Kellogg Foundation. Mary Miller, Project Director. Diane Relf, Content Specialist, Horticulture. Copyright 1989 by VCE.

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