Contents
Description
Viola Arborescens is a species of flowering plant in the violet family, Violaceae. It is commonly known as the Tree Violet due to its woody stem and shrub-like habit. Native to the southeastern United States, Viola Arborescens grows in moist, shaded areas, such as woodlands and stream banks. It is a perennial plant that can grow up to 4 feet tall and 3 feet wide. The plant produces small, fragrant, lavender-colored flowers that bloom from spring to fall. The leaves are dark green and glossy, and the plant has a pleasant fragrance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Violaceae |
| Genus | Viola |
Appearance
Viola Arborescens has a woody stem and shrub-like habit, growing up to 4 feet tall and 3 feet wide. The leaves are dark green and glossy, and the plant has a pleasant fragrance. The small, fragrant, lavender-colored flowers bloom from spring to fall, and the plant has a long blooming period. The flowers have five petals and a yellow center, and they are held above the foliage on long stems. The plant has a compact, mounding habit and is an excellent choice for borders, rock gardens, and woodland gardens.
Care Guide
Viola Arborescens thrives in moist, shaded areas, such as woodlands and stream banks. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced fertilizer to encourage growth and blooming. Viola Arborescens prefers partial shade to full shade and is hardy in USDA zones 7-9. In colder climates, the plant may die back to the ground in winter, but it will regrow in spring.
Common Pests & Diseases
Viola Arborescens is generally free of pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet or poorly drained. Aphids and spider mites may occasionally infest the plant, but they can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. If the plant becomes diseased or infested with pests, remove the affected plant parts and dispose of them to prevent the spread of the problem.
Habitat
Viola Arborescens is native to the southeastern United States, where it grows in moist, shaded areas, such as woodlands and stream banks. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and is often found growing among other woodland plants such as ferns, hostas, and astilbes. The plant is an important source of nectar for butterflies and bees, and it is a host plant for the Viola sphinx moth.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Viola Arborescens deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Viola Arborescens is deer-resistant.
Q: Can Viola Arborescens grow in full sun?
A: No, Viola Arborescens prefers partial shade to full shade.
Q: Can Viola Arborescens grow in containers?
A: Yes, Viola Arborescens can be grown in containers, but it may require more frequent watering than plants grown in the ground.
Q: How often should I fertilize Viola Arborescens?
A: Fertilize Viola Arborescens in early spring with a balanced fertilizer to encourage growth and blooming.
Related Plants
- Viola odorata (Sweet Violet)
- Viola sororia (Common Blue Violet)
- Viola tricolor (Heartsease)
- Viola pedata (Bird’s Foot Violet)
References
- “Viola arborescens.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 3, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279855.
- “Tree Violet.” North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox. Accessed August 3, 2021. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/viola-arborescens/.
- “Viola arborescens.” NC State Extension. Accessed August 3, 2021. https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/viola-arborescens.
