Contents
Description
Viola striata, commonly known as the striped violet or pale violet, is a wildflower species that belongs to the family Violaceae. It is native to eastern North America, and can be found growing in woodlands, meadows, and along stream banks. The plant is a herbaceous perennial that grows up to 6 inches in height, and blooms from March to May. The flowers of Viola striata are characterized by their beautiful, delicate stripes that run down the length of the petals.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Violaceae |
| Genus: | Viola |
| Species: | striata |
Appearance
Viola striata has a delicate, yet striking appearance. Its leaves are heart-shaped, and range in color from dark green to reddish-purple. The flowers are small, measuring only about an inch in diameter, and have five petals that are either white or pale lavender. The most distinctive feature of Viola striata, however, is the intricate stripes that adorn its petals. These stripes are a deep purple or blue, and run down the length of each petal, giving the flower a unique and beautiful appearance.
Care Guide
Viola striata is a relatively easy plant to care for. It prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter, and should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The plant also benefits from periodic fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. Viola striata thrives in partial shade to full sun, and is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like many plants, Viola striata is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases. One of the most common pests that affect this plant is the aphid, which can cause stunted growth and deformities in the leaves and flowers. Other potential pests include spider mites, thrips, and slugs. Diseases that can affect Viola striata include powdery mildew and root rot.
Habitat
Viola striata is native to the eastern United States, and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, meadows, and along stream banks. It prefers well-drained soil, and can tolerate a range of light conditions, from partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Viola striata an annual or perennial plant?
A: Viola striata is a perennial plant.
Q: What is the blooming season for Viola striata?
A: Viola striata blooms from March to May.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Viola striata?
A: Viola striata is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.
Q: What is the most distinctive feature of Viola striata?
A: The most distinctive feature of Viola striata is the intricate stripes that adorn its petals.
Related Plants
Here are some related plant species that belong to the same family as Viola striata:
- Viola odorata (sweet violet)
- Viola sororia (common blue violet)
- Viola labradorica (Labrador violet)
- Viola tricolor (Johnny-jump-up)
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Viola striata. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=275699&isprofile=0&basic=viola%20striata
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Viola striata. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=vist3
- Wildflower Center. (n.d.). Viola striata. Retrieved from https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=vist3
