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Description
Viola Mirabilis, also known as the Miracle Violet, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Violaceae family. The plant is native to Europe and Asia and is commonly found in meadows and woodland areas. It is known for its beautiful and fragrant flowers that bloom in various shades of blue, purple, and white. The plant can grow up to 20 inches in height and has heart-shaped leaves.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Violaceae |
| Genus: | Viola |
Appearance
Viola Mirabilis has heart-shaped leaves that are green in color and grow up to 2 inches in length. The plant produces beautiful and fragrant flowers that bloom in various shades of blue, purple, and white. The flowers have five petals and a yellow center, and they can grow up to 1 inch in diameter. The plant can grow up to 20 inches in height and spreads through underground stems. It blooms from May to September and requires regular deadheading to encourage continuous blooming.
Care Guide
Viola Mirabilis requires moderate care and attention to thrive. Here are some tips to care for your Miracle Violet:
- Water: The plant requires regular watering to keep the soil moist, especially during hot and dry weather. Avoid overwatering the plant as it can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: The plant benefits from regular fertilization every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and blooming.
- Soil: Viola Mirabilis prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can tolerate a range of soil pH levels but prefers slightly acidic soil.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun exposure. It can tolerate full sun but requires regular watering to prevent the soil from drying out.
- Hardiness Zones: Viola Mirabilis is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Viola Mirabilis is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause the leaves to curl and yellow. Use insecticidal soap to control aphids.
- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use slug and snail bait to control them.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. Use a fungicide to control powdery mildew.
Habitat
Viola Mirabilis is native to Europe and Asia and is commonly found in meadows and woodland areas. The plant prefers moist and well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun exposure. It can tolerate a range of soil pH levels but prefers slightly acidic soil. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 6-9 and blooms from May to September.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Viola Mirabilis toxic to pets?
A: Viola Mirabilis is not toxic to pets and is safe to grow around them.
Q: How often should I deadhead Viola Mirabilis?
A: Deadhead Viola Mirabilis regularly to encourage continuous blooming. Remove the spent flowers every few days.
Q: Can I grow Viola Mirabilis in a container?
A: Yes, Viola Mirabilis can be grown in a container. Use a well-draining potting mix and fertilize regularly during the growing season.
Q: How do I propagate Viola Mirabilis?
A: Viola Mirabilis can be propagated through division or stem cuttings. Divide the plant every few years in the spring or take stem cuttings in the summer.
Related Plants
- Viola odorata (Sweet Violet)
- Viola tricolor (Wild Pansy)
- Viola cornuta (Tufted Pansy)
- Viola sororia (Common Blue Violet)
References
- “Viola Mirabilis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281852.
- “Viola Mirabilis.” PlantFiles, Dave’s Garden, garden.org/plants/view/76492/Miracle-Violet-Viola-Mirabilis/.
- “Viola Mirabilis.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/22709/Viola-Mirabilis/Details.
