As the name denotes, African violets, (Saintpaulia ionantha hybrids) originate from Africa. They were discovered in the late 1800s (in an area that is now Tanzania) growing naturally on shaded rocky ledges in the Usambara mountains. The original flower color on the plants was blue.

What colors can violets be?

The most dominant color in violets, which appears in all of the species, is blue and purple. Since then, pinks and whites, reds and corals, then green and yellow, have appeared.

What Colours are African violets?

African violets are available in a wide range of colors and types. You may choose from several hundred varieties depending upon the flower color, form and plant characteristics you prefer. Flower color varies from blue to violet, lavender, pink, red-violet, blue-violet, lavender-pink and white.