Hairy Violet
viola riviniana
Also known as: ["Common Dog-violet","Wood Violet"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe, known for its heart-shaped leaves and small violet-blue flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Violaceae |
| Genus: | Viola |
| Botanical Name: | Viola riviniana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: woodland garden, shaded border, or underplanting
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate drainage; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-draining but moisture-retentive.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead, diseased, or overcrowded stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; tolerates low light conditions; 4–6 hours of indirect light is ideal.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light if moving from shade; protect from harsh afternoon sun; ideal for shaded garden beds or under trees.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sunlight; place in dappled shade; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good aeration; maintain consistent moisture; enrich with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures; ideal range 50–70°F (10–21°C); prefers cooler conditions in summer.
Protect from frost; avoid placing in drafty areas; maintain consistent temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering; use a balanced formula; reduce frequency in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Division or seed; division is the most reliable method for established plants.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide clumps into sections with roots.
- Replant immediately.
- Water thoroughly.
- Maintain moisture.
Best Time: Early spring or fall when the plant is not in active bloom.
Environment
Moderate humidity; partial shade; consistent moisture until established.
Medium
Rich, well-draining soil; can be propagated directly in garden beds or pots.
Hormone
Not necessary for division; optional for seeds to improve germination rates.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; seeds: germination in 2–4 weeks, establishment in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Garden fork, sharp knife, gloves, new pots or garden space.
Quick Tips
Divide every 2–3 years to maintain vigor; sow seeds in shallow trays for easier management.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off unwanted growth at the base; thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to encourage new growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, clean cutting tools.
Checklist
Inspect for dead/damaged growth; sanitize tools; prune selectively; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure adequate drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; replant in fresh soil with good drainage; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Check root health; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Leaves may become brittle, growth slows, and flowering may cease in prolonged cold.
Solution: Provide frost protection; mulch around roots; move potted plants to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicViola riviniana is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion of this plant by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicViola riviniana is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion of this plant by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicViola riviniana, commonly known as common dog-violet, is not considered toxic to humans. It has been traditionally used in some culinary applications and is generally safe for consumption in moderation.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Viola riviniana toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Viola riviniana require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade and can tolerate shade.
Q: How often should Viola riviniana be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Violaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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