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Description
Viola Pinetorum, commonly known as the pine violet, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Violaceae family. It is native to the mountainous regions of the United States, particularly in Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado. This plant is small, with a maximum height of 3-5 inches and a spread of up to 12 inches. It features a rosette of heart-shaped leaves and produces beautiful purple flowers with yellow centers during the spring and summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Violaceae |
| Genus: | Viola |
Appearance
Pine violets have heart-shaped leaves that are green and slightly hairy. The leaves grow in a basal rosette and can range from 1 to 4 inches long. The flowers are solitary and grow on long stalks, with a maximum height of 5 inches. They have five petals that are purple-blue in color with yellow centers. The flowers bloom during the spring and summer months and have a sweet scent.
Care Guide
Water: Pine violets prefer well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season, following the package instructions for the correct dosage.Soil: Pine violets require well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is ideal.Sunlight: Pine violets prefer partial shade, but they can tolerate full sun if the soil is kept consistently moist.Hardiness Zones: Pine violets are hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pine violets are relatively pest and disease resistant. However, they may be susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot. To prevent these issues, avoid overwatering and ensure good air circulation around the plant. Aphids may also infest the plant, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Pine violets are native to the mountainous regions of the United States, particularly in Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado. They grow in rocky, well-draining soil and prefer partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can pine violets grow indoors?
A: Yes, pine violets can grow indoors as long as they are placed in a well-lit area and kept consistently moist.
Q: How often should I fertilize my pine violets?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: Can pine violets tolerate frost?
A: No, pine violets are not frost-tolerant and should be protected during the winter months.
Q: How often should I water my pine violets?
A: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.
Related Plants
- Viola odorata (sweet violet)
- Viola sororia (common blue violet)
- Viola tricolor (Johnny jump-up)
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Viola pinetorum. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=VIPI
- Gardening Know How. (2021). Pine violet care: Tips for growing pine violets. Retrieved from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/viola/pine-violet-care.htm
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Viola pinetorum. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c784
