Persian Violet Exacum affine
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as the Persian violet has a lush and compact appearance, characterized by a rosette of dark green leaves that are glossy and somewhat oval in shape, with a pointed end. The leaves may have a slightly wavy edge, adding texture to the plant's overall look. Amidst the foliage, the Persian violet boasts a profusion of small, star-shaped flowers that come in a variety of hues, typically ranging from deep violet to pale blue and occasionally white, often with contrasting yellow centers that add a striking pop of color. These delicate flowers have a lovely, sweet fragrance that adds to the charm of the Persian violet, making it a favorite for indoor plant enthusiasts seeking to add both beauty and scent to their surroundings. The plant has a neat, mounded habit, presenting a tidy and dense cluster of leaves and flowers that give it a charming and tender appeal.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Gentianaceae.
Synonyms
Persian Violet, German Violet, 'Blue Buttons.
Common names
Exacum bicolor, Exacum coeruleum, Exacum macranthum, Gentiana exacum.
ToxicityTo humans
Exacum affine, commonly known as Persian Violet, is not widely recognized as a toxic plant to humans. There is limited information on its potential toxicity, and it is generally regarded as safe to keep in households. However, as with any plant, it is always prudent to avoid ingestion as a precaution, especially regarding children. If by chance any part of the Persian Violet is ingested and adverse symptoms appear, it would be wise to consult a medical professional.
To pets
Persian Violet (Exacum affine) is also not known to be toxic to pets. Information on the toxicity of this plant to animals is scarce, suggesting that it is likely safe for pets. However, individual pets may have specific sensitivities or allergies, and ingestion of plants can sometimes cause gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea. It is advisable to keep an eye on pets and prevent them from eating the plant. If any symptoms develop, contact your veterinarian for guidance.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Spread
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
10
Native area
Socotra
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Exacum affine, commonly known as Persian Violet, has attractive deep blue to purplish flowers with a lovely yellow eye, and glossy green foliage that add visual interest to any indoor environment.
- Easy to Grow: Persian Violet is relatively easy to grow and maintain, making it suitable for beginner gardeners or those who do not have a lot of time for plant care.
- Compact Size: With its small stature, the Persian Violet is ideal for windowsills, desktops, and small spaces, providing a charming touch without taking up too much room.
- Flowering Longevity: The plant has a long blooming period, which can last several weeks under proper care, providing a lengthy display of its vibrant flowers.
- Scented Flowers: The delicate flowers of Exacum affine can emit a light fragrance, contributing to a pleasant sensory experience in the home or office.
- Gift Plant: Due to its beauty and ease of care, Persian Violet makes a thoughtful gift for plant lovers or as a gesture of appreciation or celebration.
- Therapeutic Ambiance: The presence of flowering plants like the Persian Violet in living spaces can create a calming atmosphere and enhance overall well-being by providing a connection to nature.
- Seasonal Decor: As a seasonal bloomer, Persian Violet can be used to celebrate and decorate for certain seasons or holidays, particularly during its natural blooming cycle in the spring and summer.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Miniature landscaping: Exacum affine, commonly known as the Persian Violet, can be used in terrariums and fairy gardens due to its small size and attractive flowers.
- Photography prop: The plant's delicate structure and colorful blooms make it a popular choice as a subject or backdrop for close-up photography and macro shots.
- Artistic inspiration: Artists may use the Persian Violet as a muse or subject in botanical illustration and watercolor painting due to its vibrant hues and complex structure.
- Education and research: Botany students and researchers might study Exacum affine to learn about plant breeding, flower development, and plant genetics.
- Crafting: Dried flowers of the Persian Violet can be used in scrapbooking, card making, or as embellishments for other creative projects.
- Gift plant: Due to its compact size and attractive appearance, Exacum affine is commonly gifted as a living alternative to cut flowers on special occasions.
- Companion plant: The Persian Violet can serve as a companion plant in mixed containers, providing contrast with its deep blue flowers alongside other plants.
- Fragrance collection: Some enthusiasts may grow Exacum affine to enjoy its delicate scent and add a natural fragrance to small indoor spaces.
- Spiritual practices: In certain cultures, the Persian Violet might be used as a part of spiritual or meditative practices, symbolizing honesty and virtue.
- Event decoration: The plant's attractive appearance makes it suitable for use in table settings and decor at events like weddings or high tea gatherings.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Persian Violet is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Persian Violet is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Charm and Hospitality: Exacum affine, commonly known as Persian Violet, often symbolizes charm and hospitality due to its sweet fragrance and delicate appearance, which are reminiscent of a warm and welcoming environment.
- Perseverance and Strength: Despite its delicate look, Persian Violet is quite resilient and can symbolize the ability to persist and thrive in less than ideal conditions, representing inner strength.
- Healing and Restoration: Persian Violet has been associated with healing due to its use in traditional medicine, symbolizing the restoration of health and well-being.
- Friendship and Devotion: The plant's long blooming period and vibrant flowers can represent lasting friendship and devotion, making it a suitable gift as a symbol of a strong and enduring bond.
WaterThe Persian violet should be watered when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch, typically every few days depending on environmental conditions. It's essential to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Use room temperature water, slowly pouring it around the base of the plant until water begins to drain from the bottom of the pot. This could equate to watering with roughly 8 to 16 ounces of water for smaller pots, or up to half a gallon for larger pots, ensuring even hydration every 5 to 7 days.
LightPersian violets prefer bright, indirect light, such as that from an east or north-facing window. Avoid direct sunlight, especially during the harsh midday, as it can scorch the leaves. A spot that receives morning sunlight or dappled light throughout the day is ideal for promoting healthy growth and flowering.
TemperaturePersian violets thrive in temperatures ranging from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate a minimum temperature of about 50 degrees Fahrenheit but should not be exposed to temperatures below this range. The ideal temperature conditions would maintain a consistent range around the middle of the 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit spectrum to ensure the plant's health.
PruningPrune Persian violets to remove faded or dead flowers and encourage new blooms. Light pruning can be done throughout the blooming season to maintain the plant's shape and promote more compact growth. The best time to prune is after a flush of flowers has faded, trimming back the spent blooms to just above a set of healthy leaves.
CleaningAs needed
SoilPersian Violet prefers a well-draining soil mix with peat moss and perlite or sand, pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging between 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingPersian Violet should be repotted annually in early spring or when it outgrows its pot, ensuring minimal disturbance to its roots.
Humidity & MistingPersian Violet thrives in high humidity conditions, ideally between 50-60%, but it can tolerate a range down to about 40%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Persian Violet in bright, indirect light and maintain high humidity.
Outdoor
Grow Persian Violet in part shade and shelter from direct sun.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
Life cycleExacum affine, commonly known as the Persian Violet, begins its life cycle as a seed, sown in warm, moist soil where it germinates. Upon sprouting, the seedling grows into a small rosette of leaves, gradually developing a bushy habit. As the plant matures, it produces distinctive, compact foliage and starts to form buds, which eventually bloom into small, fragrant, violet-like flowers with bright yellow centers. After the flowering stage, the plant sets seed, which can be collected if the flowers are allowed to pollinate and fade naturally. The seeds can then be dispersed to propagate the next generation of Persian Violets. Under proper care, the plant may continue to grow and cycle through these stages for several years, but it is often treated as an annual or biennial due to its sensitivity to high temperature and humidity in the growth environment.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The Persian violet, Exacum affine, is typically propagated by seed, especially when done by home gardeners or in a small-scale setting. The ideal time for sowing seeds is during late winter or early spring, aiming for a period when the seedlings can grow at a temperature range between 65-70°F (approximately 18-21°C). The seeds are tiny, so they should be lightly sprinkled on the surface of a well-draining, soilless growing medium and gently pressed into the soil. They need light to germinate, so they should not be covered with soil. The container should be kept in a bright place, but not in direct sunlight, and maintained at high humidity with a plastic cover until germination occurs, which usually takes about two weeks to a month. After the seedlings have developed a couple of true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
