Why do the blooms of African violets change colors?
A. African violets do revert quite a bit since violets have been hybridized so much by so many. Even well-known standard types can revert. In fact there is no real assurance that any violet can remain stable, although some are a lot more reliable than others. For example, many of the white edge, ruffled-edged or two-tone typed play an important part in keeping plants stabilized. Some of the Genevas lose their white edge, ruffled-edge blooms and become rather plain types; and variegated plants can become almost solid colors. As the plant gets older, more chlorophyll is manufactured and there are smaller areas of white. Even foliage may change. For example, heavily waved and ruffled leaves sometimes flatten out and become plain. For more information on African violets, visit the Aggie Horticulture African violet page and the African Violet Society of America’s frequently asked question page.
