Yellow Field Pansy
viola kitaibeliana
Also known as: ["Yellow Field Violet","Kitaibel's Violet"]
Overview
A small annual or short-lived perennial viola species native to parts of Europe and Asia, characterized by its yellow flowers and low-growing habit.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Violaceae |
| Genus: | Viola |
| Botanical Name: | Viola kitaibeliana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or containers in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Loamy, well-draining soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily).
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching. In hot climates, provide afternoon shade.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate pots for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct midday sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogging; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for better texture.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates mild frosts.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; keep away from heat sources; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or stem cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare medium.
- Sow seeds or take cuttings.
- Maintain moisture.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or a mix of peat and perlite.
Hormone
Not necessary for seeds; optional for stem cuttings to encourage rooting.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 2–4 weeks; stem cuttings root in 3–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, pruners, rooting hormone (optional), misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster germination; use clean tools to prevent disease.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems to promote branching; remove dead or yellowing leaves.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; avoid cutting into old wood.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (1–2 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Use fresh well-draining soil; gently tease out crowded roots; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the container.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early morning; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water lightly and infrequently, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Reduce watering in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf damage in prolonged freezing temperatures.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; avoid placing near cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase before fertilizing; dilute fertilizer properly; avoid over-fertilizing.
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 kitaibeliana is not considered toxic to cats. It poses no known health risks upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicViola kitaibeliana is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicViola kitaibeliana is not considered toxic to humans. It is a small violet species that is generally safe for human contact and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Viola kitaibeliana edible?
A: There is limited information on its edibility; it is not commonly consumed.
Q: How does Viola kitaibeliana differ from other violas?
A: It is distinguished by its yellow flowers and annual or short-lived perennial habit.
Q: Does Viola kitaibeliana require full sun?
A: It thrives in full sun to partial shade, making it adaptable to various light conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Violaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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