Viola tectiflora

Scientific Name

Viola tectiflora W.Becker

Scientific Classification

Family: Violaceae
Subfamily: Violoideae
Tribe: Violeae
Genus: Viola

Origin

This species is native to Argentina and Chile.

Description

Viola tectiflora is a small stemless annual or short-lived perennial that belongs to the group of Rosulate Violas. It forms rosettes of semi-succulent, usually purplish-brown leaves with hairy scalloped edges. The rosettes grow up to 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter. Leaves change color to blend in with their backgrounds. Flowers are white, tinged with pink, and appear from spring to early summer.

Etymology

The specific epithet "tectiflora" derives from the Latin words "tecti," meaning "cover," and "flora," meaning "flowers," and refers to the flowers covered by overlapping leaves.

How to Grow and Care for Viola tectiflora

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 tectiflora 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 elongation of the compact rosettes. However, it is known that in any bunch of seedlings, some of them will quickly etiolate, while others may not. So there is some scope in selecting Rosulate Violas more likely to grow satisfactorily in cultivation.

Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Rosulate Violas.

Toxicity of Viola tectiflora

Violas are nontoxic for humans and pets. Both the flowers and leaves are edible fresh, cooked, or dried.

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