Viola Beckwithii
Contents
Description
Viola Beckwithii, also known as Beckwith’s violet, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Violaceae family. It is native to the western United States and can be found in various habitats such as meadows, woodlands, and sub-alpine areas. The plant has been named after the American botanist Merton Beckwith.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Violaceae |
| Genus | Viola |
Appearance
Viola Beckwithii typically grows up to 4 inches in height and spreads up to 12 inches wide. The plant has heart-shaped leaves that are dark green in color and hairy. It produces small, delicate flowers that are ¾ inch in diameter and are typically purple or lavender in color, although they can also be pink or white. The flowers bloom in the spring and summer and have a sweet, pleasant scent.
Care Guide
Water
Viola Beckwithii requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, as excessive water can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
The plant should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and blooming.
Soil
Viola Beckwithii prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH of around 6.0.
Sunlight
The plant prefers partial shade to full sun exposure. It can tolerate full shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Hardiness Zones
Viola Beckwithii is hardy in zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Viola Beckwithii is susceptible to various pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. These can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Viola Beckwithii is native to the western United States and can be found in various habitats such as meadows, woodlands, and sub-alpine areas. The plant prefers well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun exposure.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Viola Beckwithii tolerate drought?
A: No, the plant requires regular watering and cannot tolerate drought.
Q: How often should Viola Beckwithii be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season.
Q: What is the preferred pH level for Viola Beckwithii?
A: The plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of around 6.0.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Viola Beckwithii?
A: The plant is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew.
Related Plants
- Viola odorata (Sweet Violet)
- Viola sororia (Common Blue Violet)
- Viola tricolor (Johnny Jump Up)
References
- “Viola Beckwithii.” Encyclopedia of Life, https://eol.org/pages/5822593.
- “Viola Beckwithii.” Missouri Botanical Garden, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=g350.
- “Beckwith’s Violet.” Colorado State University Extension, https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/beckwiths-violet-7-232/.
