Ask the Expert: African violet

I have a variegated African violet with the standard leaves, but all the new growth that is coming on, the new leaves are “pink”. They are a solid pink with no green.
Is this the usual way a varigated violet reproduces or is this different. Sara

Reply:

Sara,

The genetic factors involved in creating a variegated African violet have instability issues.  This instability can cause the leaves to vary in color.  This variation can sometimes be very significant.  Keep in mind slight changes in temperature and water can also effect the leave color.   If your plant looks healthy and seems to be thriving I would not worry.  However, if you plant seems to be deteriorating then we would need to look at other environment factors to determine if their is a problem.  Please keep me posted.