Viola Japonica
Contents
Description
Viola Japonica, also known as Japanese violet, is a perennial flowering plant native to Japan, Korea, and China. It belongs to the Violaceae family and is a popular choice for gardeners due to its beautiful flowers and tolerance for a variety of growing conditions.The plant grows to a height of 6-12 inches and has a spread of 12-18 inches. It produces small, fragrant flowers that are typically blue or purple, but can also be white. The blooms appear in the spring and summer months and can last for several weeks.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Violales |
| Family | Violaceae |
| Genus | Viola |
Appearance
Viola Japonica has heart-shaped leaves that are green and slightly hairy. The flowers are small, measuring only about an inch in diameter, and have five petals that are arranged in a distinctive pattern. The blooms are typically blue or purple, but can also be white. The plant grows in a clumping habit and can spread to form a low, dense groundcover.
Care Guide
Viola Japonica is a hardy plant that can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this beautiful plant:Water: Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week during the growing season.Fertilization: Apply a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer every four weeks during the growing season.Soil: Viola Japonica prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy or clay soils.Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate full sun, but may require more frequent watering.Hardiness Zones: Viola Japonica is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Viola Japonica is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to slugs and snails, which can be controlled with slug bait or other methods. The plant may also be prone to root rot in poorly-draining soil, so be sure to plant it in well-draining soil.
Habitat
Viola Japonica is native to Japan, Korea, and China, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, and rocky areas. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Viola Japonica be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Viola Japonica can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container has drainage holes.Q: How often should Viola Japonica be fertilized?
A: Viola Japonica should be fertilized with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer every four weeks during the growing season.Q: Is Viola Japonica a good plant for pollinators?
A: Yes, Viola Japonica is a good plant for pollinators, as the flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.Q: Can Viola Japonica be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Viola Japonica can be propagated from cuttings taken in the spring or early summer.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Viola Japonica:
- Viola odorata (sweet violet)
- Viola tricolor (wild pansy)
- Viola sororia (common blue violet)
- Viola labradorica (Labrador violet)
References
- “Viola Japonica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=f438
- “Viola Japonica.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/106042/i-viola-japonica-i/details
- “Viola Japonica.” The Spruce. https://www.thespruce.com/viola-japonica-plant-profile-4692723
