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Updated Overview of the Top Saintpaulia Varieties from 2000

The list below highlights the leading Saintpaulia (African violet) varieties as recognized in professional horticultural production, based on votes from a press event held September 6, 2000. This snapshot, though over two decades old, provides valuable insight into trends and preferences among commercial growers at the turn of the millennium, and many of these varieties are still appreciated by collectors and African violet enthusiasts today.

Top-Ranked Cultivars

1. Akira
   Topping the list, 'Akira' was especially well-regarded for its elegant form and robust blooming habits. Its popularity underscores the importance of symmetrical rosettes and striking floral displays in commercial production.

2. Dubbel blåsippa
   Translating to "Double Liverwort," this variety is notable for its lush, double blossoms in soft blue hues, a form highly sought after both by professional growers and hobbyists.

3. Valeska
   'Valeska' is widely recognized for its generous flowering and vibrant color, consistently earning a place among the top choices for large-scale cultivation.

4. Witt dubbel
   This double-flowered white African violet is cherished for its pure coloration and dense petals, reflecting the enduring appeal of crisp, clean blooms in the market.

5. "Botanisk"
   The "Botanisk" variety is likely named for its resemblance to wild-type or species forms—valued for their distinctive character and, for some, the nostalgia of original Saintpaulias.

6. Kzuko
   With its unique look and steady performance, 'Kzuko' remains a favorite among growers wanting diversity in both flower color and form.

7. Chimera
   Chimeric varieties are especially fascinating for their patterning and unique genetic makeup, producing eye-catching stripes or multicolored patterns on their petals.

8–12. Cora, Hisako, Mia, Sarah, Taita
These varieties, while not illustrated, are recognized for their horticultural merit, each offering specific traits such as floriferousness, resilience, or distinctive coloration that make them valuable for producers.

Notable Features and Cultivation Traits

• Double-Flowered Forms: Varieties such as Dubbel blåsippa and Witt dubbel exemplify the popularity of double-petaled African violets, known for their plush blossoms and ornamental value.
• Unique Foliage or Chimeric Traits: 'Chimera' types are particularly prized among collectors for their rare and unpredictable striping—traits that remain stable only through vegetative propagation.
• Consistency in Commercial Production: The popularity of Akira, Valeska, and others was due to their reliability, floriferousness, and ease of propagation—essential qualities for large-scale growers.

Cultivation Highlights

• Substrate and Watering: African violets thrive in light, airy mixes rich in peat, such as those used for Akira and its peers. Even, lukewarm watering prevents leaf spotting and root rot.
• Light and Temperature: Sufficient but indirect light, along with stable warmth, is vital for continued blooming. Sudden cold or harsh sunlight will quickly damage sensitive leaves and flowers.
• Fertilization and Maintenance: Regular, diluted feeding maintains health and bloom frequency. Removing spent flowers and older, worn leaves promotes fresh growth and display value.

Enduring Appeal of African Violets

First discovered in Tanzania in the late 19th century, Saintpaulias rapidly gained popularity after their introduction to Europe and beyond. Breeders have since developed hundreds of cultivars with myriad flower forms, leaf types, and bloom colors. The varieties celebrated in 2000—such as Akira, Dubbel blåsippa, and Valeska—continue to illustrate the remarkable range achieved through careful selection and breeding.

Summary Table: Leading Saintpaulia Varieties of 2000

In summary, these top-voted cultivars continue to form the backbone of commercial Saintpaulia production, prized for their beauty, vigor, and market appeal. By combining reliable performance with exceptional ornamental traits, varieties like Akira, Dubbel blåsippa, and Valeska exemplify the rich diversity and sustainability of African violet breeding—traits which continue to delight both commercial growers and enthusiasts alike.