Contents
Description
Viola reichei, commonly known as Reiche’s violet, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Violaceae family. It is native to South America and can be found in countries such as Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile. This plant typically grows up to 10-20 centimeters in height and spreads up to 30-40 centimeters in width.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Violaceae |
| Genus | Viola |
Appearance
Viola reichei has small green leaves that are oval or heart-shaped, measuring about 1-2 centimeters long. Its flowers are purple in color and have five petals that are around 1.5 centimeters long. The flowers bloom in the spring and summer months and are produced singly or in small groups.
Care Guide
Viola reichei is a low-maintenance plant that can be easily grown in most garden conditions. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:
- Water: Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Viola reichei prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade to full sun.
- Hardiness Zones: Viola reichei can grow in hardiness zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Viola reichei is generally not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, it may be affected by root rot or powdery mildew in moist conditions. Slugs and snails may also feed on the leaves of this plant.
Habitat
Viola reichei is commonly found growing in rocky or sandy soils in grasslands, meadows, and open woodlands. It can also be found growing in disturbed areas such as roadsides and abandoned fields.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Viola reichei be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Viola reichei can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the container is placed in a location that receives partial shade.
Q: How often should Viola reichei be fertilized?
A: Viola reichei should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the best time to plant Viola reichei?
A: Viola reichei can be planted in the spring or fall, but it is best to avoid planting during the hottest part of the summer.
Q: How do I propagate Viola reichei?
A: Viola reichei can be propagated by seed or by dividing mature plants in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Viola odorata (Sweet violet)
- Viola sororia (Common blue violet)
- Viola tricolor (Johnny jump-up)
References
- “Viola reichei,” Missouri Botanical Garden, accessed September 9, 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c451
- “Viola reichei,” Plants of the World Online, accessed September 9, 2021, http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:775880-1
- “Viola reichei,” The Royal Horticultural Society, accessed September 9, 2021, https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/266329/Viola-reichei/Details
