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Description
Viola Reichenbachiana, commonly known as the Early Dog Violet, is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the Viola genus of the Violaceae family. It is native to Europe and parts of Asia, and is a hardy perennial that can grow up to 20cm in height. This plant is known for its distinctive violet-blue flowers that bloom from April to June, and is a popular choice for gardens and landscaping.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Violaceae |
| Genus | Viola |
Appearance
Viola Reichenbachiana has heart-shaped leaves that are dark green and slightly hairy. The flowers are solitary and have five petals, with the upper two petals being larger and more showy than the lower three. The flowers are typically violet-blue in color, but can also be pink or white. They bloom from April to June and are about 2-3cm in diameter. The plant can grow up to 20cm in height and has a spread of 10-15cm.
Care Guide
Viola Reichenbachiana is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for growing and maintaining this plant:- Water: This plant prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water regularly, but avoid overwatering.- Fertilization: This plant does not require much fertilization. You can use a balanced fertilizer once or twice a year, but be careful not to over-fertilize.- Soil: This plant prefers well-drained, fertile soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but does not like heavy clay soils.- Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can result in poor growth and fewer flowers.- Hardiness Zones: Viola Reichenbachiana is hardy in zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Viola Reichenbachiana is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to the following:- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use a slug and snail bait to control them.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and use a fungicide to control the disease.
Habitat
Viola Reichenbachiana is native to Europe and parts of Asia. It can be found in meadows, woodlands, and along roadsides. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Viola Reichenbachiana tolerate drought?
A: No, this plant prefers moist soil and does not tolerate drought well.
Q: Can I propagate Viola Reichenbachiana from cuttings?
A: Yes, you can propagate this plant from stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer.
Q: How often should I fertilize Viola Reichenbachiana?
A: This plant does not require much fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer once or twice a year.
Q: Can Viola Reichenbachiana grow in full sun?
A: Yes, this plant can tolerate full sun, but prefers partial shade.
Related Plants
– Viola odorata (Sweet Violet)- Viola tricolor (Wild Pansy)- Viola cornuta (Horned Violet)- Viola sororia (Common Blue Violet)
References
– “Viola Reichenbachiana.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed July 20, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=z490.- “Viola reichenbachiana.” PlantFiles. Accessed July 20, 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/59259/.
