African Violet

African Violets are a popular houseplants. Varieties are defined by their color and striking bloom, which flower in single or double petals. Varying leaf shapes characterize African Violets. They range in form from oval to pointed, scalloped, long, serrated, heart-shaped, or bustled (dual leaved)

Discovered in 1892 by Baron von St. Paul (hence the botanical name -- Saintpaulia, a genus of plants within the Gesneriad family), many species can still be found growing in the Eastern Arc Mountains of Tanzania and Kenya. They are tropical and reside in high altitudes under the cover of other plants in nature. 

Fun Fact: The African Violets cousin is the Goldfish Plant. African violet symbolism is devotion, commitment, and faithfulness.  Not related to actual violets.