Plant

[Filbert]

Today I have been given 2 flowering plants as a pressie and we have no idea what type they are.
One is barbie pink and the other is a rich purple colour, both with yellow middles. There are 5 petals on each flower.
The leaves (at first I thought they were plastic) are almost velvety and round in shape. On they back they are a little pink. Does anyone have any idea what type they could be? Thanks in advance

[shaneystar2]

Could they be Hibiscus ?
http://www.lakeareanursery.com/hibiscus/Hibisc usKona.jpg

or African Violets if the leaves are velvety
http://www.library.okstate.edu/vetmed/assets/i eatplants/additional_images/african_violet.jpg

[Filbert]

Thanks so much. Now to learn how to look after them.....

[shaneystar2]

Filbert ..if they are the African Violets don't water them from above .They hate water on their leaves .
Let them be as dry as possible between waterings and then stand the pot in water until they have supped up what they need ...and then let them dry out again .When the pot feels light then water them again . Feed now and again with some Baby Bio.With care they will last for years and you can split them up to make more .

[Filbert]

Just a quickie, are they indoor or outdoor plants? Can they be in direct sunlight? (I'm not very greenfingered)

[Hawkwalk]

Filbert - you need to say which ones they are.

[shaneystar2]

If they are ..again ..African Violets as on the link I gave you they are an indoor houseplant .
Don't have them in direct sunlight. They will survive almost anywhere in the house otherwise ...but not the bathroom .
Can you let us know which plant they are ?
Are they the African Violets or the Hibiscus !

[Filbert]

From the pictures you kindly sent, they are african violets.

[Filbert]

Also are they safe for cats? My George is very interested in plants...

[Hawkwalk]

safe for cats. List of harmful plants for cats here.

http://www.cfainc.org/articles/plants.html