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Description
Viola douglasii is a species of wildflower that belongs to the violet family, Violaceae. It is commonly known as Douglas’ violet, and it is native to western North America. This beautiful wildflower can grow up to 30 centimeters in height and produces showy flowers that are usually light blue to purple in color. The plant blooms from March to June, and it can be found growing in meadows, open forests, and rocky slopes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Violaceae |
| Genus | Viola |
Appearance
The leaves of Viola douglasii are heart-shaped, and they can be up to 7 centimeters long. The flowers are usually light blue to purple in color, and they have five petals. The lower petals have dark purple lines that act as nectar guides for pollinators. The flowers are about 2 centimeters in diameter, and they bloom on long stalks that rise above the foliage. The plant produces small, brown, capsule-like fruits that are about 1 centimeter long.
Care Guide
Viola douglasii is a low-maintenance plant that does not require much attention. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Viola douglasii prefers partial shade to full sun.
- Hardiness Zones: Viola douglasii can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Viola douglasii is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may sometimes be affected by:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing the leaves to curl and turn yellow. Use insecticidal soap to control aphids.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide.
Habitat
Viola douglasii is native to western North America and can be found growing in meadows, open forests, and rocky slopes. The plant prefers moist soil and partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Viola douglasii a perennial or an annual?
A: Viola douglasii is a perennial plant.
Q: Can Viola douglasii grow in containers?
A: Yes, Viola douglasii can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant receives enough sunlight.
Q: Does Viola douglasii attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Viola douglasii is a good source of nectar for bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Viola douglasii be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Viola douglasii can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in late spring or early summer.
Related Plants
- Viola odorata (sweet violet)
- Viola sororia (common blue violet)
- Viola pedunculata (California golden violet)
References
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=VIDO
- https://www.nps.gov/plants/pubs/rockies/viola_douglasii.html
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/viola_douglasii.shtml
