Scientific Name
Viola columnaris Skottsb.
Scientific Classification
Family: Violaceae
Subfamily: Violoideae
Tribe: Violeae
Genus: Viola
Etymology
The specific epithet "columnaris (kol-LUM-nair-iss)" means "columnar" and refers to its raised rosettes.
Origin
Viola columnaris is native to Argentina.
Description
Viola columnaris is one of the Rosulate Violas with leaves arranged in a rosette and typical "Heartsease" flowers. It is an attractive perennial plant that spreads using rhizomes. The leaves change color to blend in with their backgrounds, making the rosettes difficult to detect when not in flower. The rosettes can reach up to 3.6 inches (9 cm) in height and 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter.
The flowers are white with violet veins and barely emerge from the rosettes in spring and early summer.
How to Grow and Care for Viola columnaris
Rosulate Violas have a reputation for being difficult to keep alive. Cold conditions, soil containing adequate nutrients, and as much light as possible are essential.
Soil: They grow in relatively bare, loose soils, often volcanic in origin.
Hardiness: Viola columnaris can withstand temperatures as low as 0 to 50 °F (-17.8 to 10 °C), USDA hardiness zones 7a to 11b.
Propagation: Rosulate Violas are grown only from seed and with some patience.
The main problem with these plants is etiolation, caused by a lack of light, which results in the elongation of the compact rosettes. However, it is known that some seedlings will quickly etiolate in any bunch, while others may not. So, there is some scope in selecting Rosulate Violas that are more likely to grow satisfactorily in cultivation.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Rosulate Violas.
Toxicity of Viola columnaris
Violas are nontoxic for humans and pets. Both the flowers and leaves are edible, fresh, cooked, or dried.
Links
- Back to genus Viola
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
Photo Gallery
Click on a photo to see a larger version.
