Viola trochlearis

Scientific Name

Viola trochlearis J.M.Watson & A.R.Flores

Scientific Classification

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

Origin

This species is native to Argentina (Neuquén).

Description

Viola trochlearis is an annual or short-lived perennial that forms rosettes of soft, semi-succulent, beautifully textured leaves. The rosettes are dome-shaped and grow up to 3.2 inches (8 cm) in diameter. Leaves are sand-colored with fine hairs around the edges. Flowers are white, with a mottled purple center fading to the petal edges and a yellow throat, and appear from spring to early summer.

This species is a Rosulate Viola that belongs to the Volcanica group.

Etymology

The specific epithet "trochlearis" means "shaped like a pulley-wheel." It derives from the Latin "trochlea," meaning "pulley," and probably refers to the shape of the rosette.

How to Grow and Care for Viola trochlearis

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 trochlearis 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 trochlearis

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

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