Scientific Name
Viola pachysoma Sheader & J.M. Watson
Scientific Classification
Family: Violaceae
Subfamily: Violoideae
Tribe: Violeae
Genus: Viola
Etymology
The specific epithet "pachysoma (pak-ee-SO-muh)" means "having a thick body" and probably refers to the shape of the rosettes.
Origin
Viola pachysoma is endemic to the Patagonian Andes of Argentina.
Description
Viola pachysoma is a perennial plant that spreads by rhizomes and forms rosettes of semi-succulent leaves that change color to blend in with their backgrounds. The rosettes can grow up to 3.8 inches (9 cm) tall and 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter.
The flowers are white with violet veins and appear in spring and early summer, standing in a ring around the outer edge of the rosettes.
How to Grow and Care for Viola pachysoma
Rosulate Violas have a reputation for being difficult to keep alive. Therefore, 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 pachysoma 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 of the seedlings will quickly etiolate while others will 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 pachysoma
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.
