Cultivating Flora

What Are the Different Types of Viola Plant

Violas are a popular flowering plant that are well-loved for their delicate and colorful blooms. They belong to the family Violaceae and are closely related to pansies. There are many different types of viola plants, each with its own unique features and characteristics. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular types of viola plants.

1. Viola Sororia

Viola sororia, also known as the common blue violet or meadow violet, is a native plant to North America. This type of viola is a perennial that grows up to six inches tall and produces blue-violet or white flowers in the spring. It is commonly found in meadows and woodlands and prefers moist soil.

2. Viola Cornuta

Viola cornuta, also known as the horned violet, is a popular type of viola that is native to Europe. It is a perennial that grows up to eight inches tall and produces small flowers in shades of blue, purple, yellow, and white. The horned violet is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens and can be grown in pots or containers.

3. Viola Tricolor

Viola tricolor, also known as heartsease or Johnny-jump-up, is another popular type of viola that is native to Europe. It is an annual or biennial plant that grows up to six inches tall and produces small flowers in shades of purple, yellow, and white. The heartsease is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens and can be grown in pots or containers.

4. Viola Odorata

Viola odorata, also known as sweet violet, is a fragrant type of viola that is native to Europe and Asia. It is a perennial that grows up to six inches tall and produces small, fragrant flowers in shades of purple, pink, and white. The sweet violet is often used in perfumes and cosmetics and can be grown in pots or containers.

5. Viola Hederacea

Viola hederacea, also known as the Australian violet or ivy-leaved violet, is a type of viola that is native to Australia and New Zealand. It is a perennial that grows up to six inches tall and produces small flowers in shades of blue, purple, and white. The Australian violet is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens and can be grown in pots or containers.

6. Viola Canadensis

Viola canadensis, also known as Canada violet, is a type of viola that is native to North America. It is a perennial that grows up to eight inches tall and produces small flowers in shades of blue-violet or white. The Canada violet is often found in meadows and woodlands and prefers moist soil.

7. Viola Pedata

Viola pedata, also known as bird’s foot violet, is a type of viola that is native to North America. It is a perennial that grows up to six inches tall and produces small flowers in shades of blue, purple, pink, and white. The bird’s foot violet is often found in open fields and prefers dry soil.

8. Viola Labradorica

Viola labradorica, also known as alpine violet or Labrador violet, is a type of viola that is native to North America. It is a perennial that grows up to six inches tall and produces small flowers in shades of blue-violet or white. The alpine violet is often found in rocky areas and prefers moist soil.

FAQ Section

Q: Can violas be grown indoors?

A: Yes, violas can be grown indoors in pots or containers. They require bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.

Q: How often should violas be watered?

A: Violas prefer moist soil but do not like to be overwatered. Water them when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.

Q: Are violas edible?

A: Yes, violas are edible and can be used as a garnish or added to salads for color and flavor.

Q: How do I propagate violas?

A: Violas can be propagated by seed, division, or cuttings. Seeds can be sown in the fall or early spring, while division and cuttings should be done in the spring or early summer.