Sun scorch from direct light
Dry, bleached patches on the leaves nearest the glass are sunburn.
Diagnosis
Sun scorch from direct light
What's happening
African violets evolved in the dappled shade of East African forests and aren't built for harsh, direct sun. When strong rays hit the soft leaves through a window, they scorch the tissue and bleach out the color, leaving faded, papery patches that don't green back up — usually worst on the leaves closest to the glass.
How to fix it
Move the plant back from the window or filter the sun with a sheer curtain; an east or north window, or a spot a few feet inside a bright south or west window, suits it best. Bright but indirect light is the goal. The scorched patches won't recover, so trim badly damaged leaves at the base, and the plant will replace them with healthy growth once it's out of the harsh sun.
What fixes it
- A full-spectrum LED grow light — If your only bright spot was scorching it, a grow light gives even, gentle light without the burn — and encourages blooming.
If that doesn't fix it
This is general guidance based on common symptoms; individual plants vary.
Read the full African Violet care guide →
Reviewed June 2026 · how we check this