False African violets are plants that resemble true African violets (Saintpaulia species) but belong to different botanical genera. Despite their common name, these plants are distinct and offer an alternative for gardeners seeking plants with a ‘violet-like’ appearance.
Understanding the False African Violet
The plants most frequently labeled as “false African violets” are Streptocarpella saxorum and Boea hygrometrica. Streptocarpella saxorum, also known as Cape Primrose or Nodding Violet, is native to East Africa, where it often grows on rocks and cliffs. This plant features soft, velvety green leaves and produces numerous small, tubular flowers, predominantly in shades of purple or blue.
Boea hygrometrica originates from various regions across Asia, including China and Southeast Asia. It can tolerate extreme dehydration, earning it the nickname “resurrection plant.” While its flowers are violet-like, its leaf texture can appear more textured or wrinkled. Both Streptocarpella and Boea belong to the same plant family as true African violets, Gesneriaceae.
Key Differences from True African Violets
Distinguishing false African violets from true African violets (Saintpaulia) involves observing their growth habits, leaf characteristics, and flower structures. Saintpaulia species form compact rosettes of thick, hairy, ovate leaves arranged in a basal cluster. Their flowers are flat-faced with five lobes and vary widely in color and form due to extensive hybridization.
In contrast, Streptocarpella saxorum exhibits a mounding and trailing growth habit, with slender, hairy stems. Its leaves are smaller, elliptic to ovate, and softly hairy, often appearing in whorls of three. The flowers of Streptocarpella saxorum are tubular, about an inch long, flaring into five lobes, with the lower three typically larger than the upper two. These flowers emerge on thin stalks above the foliage.
Boea hygrometrica stands out with its unique desiccation tolerance. While its leaves are textured, they differ from the dense, fuzzy rosettes of Saintpaulia. The flowers of Boea species are smaller and less prominent than those of Saintpaulia. The plant’s ability to dry out and rehydrate is a defining characteristic not found in true African violets. Despite visual similarities, their distinct botanical classifications underscore their separate identities.
Caring for Your False African Violet
Caring for Streptocarpella saxorum and Boea hygrometrica is similar to caring for true African violets, requiring consistent, moderate conditions. Both prefer bright, indirect light, mimicking their native habitats. Direct midday sunlight can scorch their leaves, so placement near an east or north-facing window is ideal.
Watering requires attention; the soil should remain consistently moist but never waterlogged to prevent root rot. Allowing the top inch or two of soil to dry slightly between waterings is a good practice. Bottom watering can help avoid spotting on leaves. These plants thrive in well-draining potting mixes, such as those formulated for African violets or organic potting soil amended with perlite.
False African violets appreciate higher humidity levels, reflecting their tropical origins. Room temperatures between 60°F and 75°F are suitable for their growth. Fertilize with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks during the active growing season to promote healthy foliage and continuous blooming. Propagation is straightforward, often achieved through stem or leaf cuttings.
Why the Name False African Violet
The common name “false African violet” stems from the visual similarities these plants share with true African violets. Streptocarpella saxorum and Boea hygrometrica often display flowers with similar hues of purple, blue, or white, and their foliage can possess a soft, velvety texture, creating a deceptive resemblance. This superficial likeness led to them being grouped under this common name.
Common names often arise from easily observable characteristics, which can lead to confusion when plants are not taxonomically related. Despite being in the same family as Saintpaulia, Streptocarpella and Boea belong to distinct genera. Using scientific names, such as Streptocarpella saxorum or Boea hygrometrica, helps ensure accurate identification and prevents misinterpretations based solely on appearance.