Contents
Description
Viola Vallicola, commonly known as the Alpine Violet, is a flowering plant species that belongs to the viola family. It is native to the Alps and the Apennines of Europe, where it grows at high altitudes of up to 3,000 meters. The Alpine Violet is a perennial plant that blooms from May to September with flowers that range from white to deep violet. It has heart-shaped leaves that grow in a basal rosette and can reach up to 15 cm in diameter. The Alpine Violet is a popular ornamental plant due to its delicate and colorful flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Violaceae |
| Genus | Viola |
| Species | Vallicola |
Appearance
The Alpine Violet has heart-shaped leaves that grow in a basal rosette and can reach up to 15 cm in diameter. Its flowers bloom from May to September and can range from white to deep violet. The petals are asymmetrical and have a characteristic dark line on the lower petal. The Alpine Violet can grow up to 20 cm in height and has a bushy habit. Its roots are shallow and do not tolerate drought well.
Care Guide
To care for the Alpine Violet, it is important to provide it with well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly. However, it is important not to overwater the plant as it can rot. The Alpine Violet also requires regular fertilization during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering. It prefers partial shade to full sun and can tolerate temperatures down to -20°C. It is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Alpine Violet is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including aphids, slugs, and botrytis blight. Aphids can be controlled with insecticidal soap, while slugs can be deterred with copper tape or diatomaceous earth. Botrytis blight can be prevented by providing adequate air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
The Alpine Violet is native to the Alps and the Apennines of Europe, where it grows at high altitudes of up to 3,000 meters. It prefers rocky and gravelly soils and can be found in alpine meadows, rocky slopes, and crevices.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Alpine Violet be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Alpine Violet can be grown in containers as long as they have good drainage and are not overwatered.
Q: When should the Alpine Violet be pruned?
A: The Alpine Violet does not require regular pruning. However, deadheading spent flowers can promote new growth and prolong the blooming period.
Q: How can I propagate the Alpine Violet?
A: The Alpine Violet can be propagated by seed, division, or leaf cuttings. Seeds should be sown in early spring, while division and leaf cuttings should be taken in late summer or early fall.
Q: Is the Alpine Violet deer-resistant?
A: No, the Alpine Violet is not deer-resistant and may be damaged by deer browsing.
Related Plants
- Viola odorata (Sweet Violet)
- Viola tricolor (Wild Pansy)
- Viola sororia (Common Blue Violet)
References
- “Viola Vallicola.” Flora of North America.
- “Viola Vallicola.” Missouri Botanical Garden.
- “Viola Vallicola.” Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
