Horned Violet
viola cornuta
Also known as: ["Tunisian Violet","Horned Pansy"]
Overview
A perennial flowering plant in the Violaceae family, known for its delicate, fragrant flowers that resemble pansies.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Angiosperms |
| Class: | Eudicots |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Violaceae |
| Genus: | Viola |
| Botanical Name: | Viola cornuta |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter; can use a mix of potting soil, perlite, and compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 4–6 weeks during growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on deadheading and shaping rather than heavy cuts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade; 4–6 hours of sunlight per day; protect from intense midday sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to full sun to prevent scorching; provide shade during peak summer hours; adjust light exposure based on indoor vs. outdoor placement.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; avoid direct afternoon sun; rotate plants for even growth.
Watering
every 5–7 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, fertile, slightly alkaline soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; amend with organic matter for better texture.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, 50–70°F (10–21°C); tolerates light frost but prefers mild conditions.
Keep away from heat sources; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from sudden temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth, monthly in winter
Fertilize sparingly to prevent overfeeding; apply after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing in late autumn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 3–4 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or use clean shears to cut just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.
Tools
Pruning shears, clean scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged growth; remove spent flowers; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for maintaining vigor.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water early morning or late evening; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency based on weather.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom but avoid waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower drop due to extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; avoid placing near drafty windows or cold drafts; use a cloche or cold frame if needed.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; flowers may fade quickly in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; ensure adequate watering to combat heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicViola cornuta is not toxic to cats. The plant is considered safe for feline consumption in small quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicViola cornuta is not toxic to dogs. The plant is generally safe for canine consumption in small amounts.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicViola cornuta, commonly known as horned violet, is not considered toxic to humans. It is generally safe for consumption in small quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Viola cornuta be watered?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 5-7 days, depending on climate and conditions.
Q: Does Viola cornuta require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade to full sun, but in hot climates, afternoon shade is beneficial.
Q: Can Viola cornuta be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors with adequate light and proper care, but it thrives best outdoors.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Violaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 5–7 days during active |
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