Contents
Description
Viola Sororia, also known as the common blue violet or woolly blue violet, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to eastern North America. It is a member of the Violaceae family and is commonly found in moist woods, meadows, and along streams.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Violales |
| Family | Violaceae |
| Genus | Viola |
Appearance
Viola Sororia has heart-shaped leaves with deeply scalloped edges, and produces a profusion of deep blue or purple flowers from April to June. The flowers have five petals, with the lower petal being the largest and having dark veins. The plant typically grows to a height of 6-10 inches and spreads by rhizomes.
Care Guide
Viola Sororia thrives in moist, well-drained soil and prefers partial shade to full sun. It is hardy in USDA zones 3-9, and can tolerate temperatures as low as -40°F. To care for this plant, water regularly and fertilize with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer in the spring. Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Common Pests & Diseases
Viola Sororia is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but may occasionally be affected by aphids, spider mites, or powdery mildew. These issues can usually be addressed with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Viola Sororia is native to eastern North America and can be found growing in moist woods, meadows, and along streams. It prefers well-drained soil and partial shade, but can also tolerate full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Viola Sororia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Viola Sororia can be grown in containers as long as the soil is kept moist and the plant receives adequate sunlight.
Q: How often should Viola Sororia be fertilized?
A: Viola Sororia should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer.
Q: Does Viola Sororia require pruning?
A: Viola Sororia does not require pruning, but deadheading spent flowers can encourage more blooms.
Q: Is Viola Sororia toxic to pets?
A: Viola Sororia is non-toxic to humans and pets.
Related Plants
- Viola odorata
- Viola tricolor
- Viola pubescens
- Viola pedata
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Viola sororia. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282757
- North Carolina State University. (n.d.). Viola sororia. Retrieved from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/viola-sororia/
- United States Department of Agriculture. (n.d.). PLANTS Profile for Viola sororia. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=VISO
