High Violet
viola elatior
Also known as: ["Elevated Violet","Tall Violet"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant in the Violaceae family, characterized by its heart-shaped leaves and yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Angiosperms |
| Class: | Eudicots |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Violaceae |
| Genus: | Viola |
| Botanical Name: | Viola elatior Fries |
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":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid heavy clay soils that retain too much water.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter like compost or peat moss.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major pruning is best done in early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of direct sunlight or bright indirect light); adjust based on seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to avoid scorching; provide shade during peak summer hours; for indoor plants, place near east-facing windows.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid overwatering to prevent compaction; test soil pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights but avoid frost.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in warm conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing when plant is dormant.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least two nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome or plastic bag, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterile tools to prevent infection; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim leggy stems to promote compact growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, or your fingers for small stems.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or yellowing leaves; cut just above a leaf node; remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for maintaining vigor and growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in shaded area for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early morning; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without saturating the soil; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
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 coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf discoloration (yellowing or browning), stunted growth, or bud drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and can lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; flowering may be reduced; soil may dry out too quickly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season only; avoid contact with leaves; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicViola elatior is not toxic to cats. There are no known compounds in this plant that would cause toxicity in felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicViola elatior does not contain known toxins harmful to dogs. It is not expected to cause any adverse effects if ingested in small amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicViola elatior is not known to produce any toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Viola elatior suitable for shade gardens?
A: Yes, it thrives in partial to full shade conditions.
Q: Does Viola elatior attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees and butterflies.
Q: How often should Viola elatior be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Violaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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