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Description
Viola Sempervirens, commonly known as the evergreen violet, is a small evergreen perennial that belongs to the Viola genus. It is native to North America and can be found growing in rocky woods, slopes, and meadows. The plant is characterized by its heart-shaped leaves that grow in a rosette formation and its delicate, five-petaled lavender flowers that bloom from early spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Violaceae |
| Genus | Viola |
Appearance
The evergreen violet is a low-growing plant that reaches a height of about 6-8 inches and a spread of about 8-12 inches. Its leaves are dark green and glossy, with a slightly serrated edge, and grow in a basal rosette. The flowers are typically lavender in color, although they may also be white or pink, and have five petals that are slightly ruffled at the edges. The blooms are about 1 inch in diameter and have a sweet fragrance.
Care Guide
Viola Sempervirens is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for keeping your evergreen violet healthy and happy:
- Water: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week, or more often in hot, dry weather.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The evergreen violet prefers well-drained, loamy soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH (6.0-7.0).
- Sunlight: The plant can tolerate full sun to partial shade, but prefers a location with morning sun and afternoon shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Viola Sempervirens is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The evergreen violet is generally pest and disease resistant, but may be susceptible to the following:
- Slugs and snails: These pests can damage the leaves and flowers. Use traps or bait to control them.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Improve air circulation around the plant and remove affected leaves.
- Crown rot: This disease can cause the plant to wilt and die. Avoid overwatering and plant in well-drained soil.
Habitat
The evergreen violet is native to North America and can be found growing in rocky woods, slopes, and meadows. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Viola Sempervirens in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow the evergreen violet in a container. Use a well-draining potting mix and water regularly to keep the soil moist.
Q: How often should I fertilize Viola Sempervirens?
A: Feed the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Will Viola Sempervirens grow in full sun?
A: Yes, the plant can tolerate full sun to partial shade, but prefers a location with morning sun and afternoon shade.
Q: How do I propagate Viola Sempervirens?
A: You can propagate the evergreen violet by dividing the plant in early spring or by taking stem cuttings in summer.
Related Plants
- Viola Odorata
- Viola Sororia
- Viola Tricolor
References
- “Viola sempervirens.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j990.
- “Viola sempervirens.” Plant Database, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=VISE2.
- “Evergreen Violet.” Fine Gardening, Taunton Press, www.finegardening.com/plant/evergreen-violet-viola-sempervirens.
