Evergreen Violet
viola sempervirens
Also known as: ["Yellow Evergreen Violet","Evergreen Dog Violet"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to western North America, known for its yellow flowers and evergreen leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Violaceae |
| Genus: | Viola |
| Botanical Name: | Viola sempervirens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container in a cool, moist environment
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter like peat moss or compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning after flowering; more intensive pruning in early spring if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light to prevent scorching; protect from intense afternoon sun; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural dappled light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; avoid placing near south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow top inch of soil to dry between waterings, avoid waterlogging.
Soil
moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic, ideally 5.5–6.5.
Ensure pots have drainage holes, avoid compacted soil, use a mix suitable for acid-loving plants.
Temperature
Prefers cool temperatures, ideally 50–65°F (10–18°C); tolerates mild warmth but thrives in cooler conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent cool temperatures; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a fertilizer with micronutrients.
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, and wait for roots.
Best Time: Early spring or early fall when the plant is not in full bloom.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and consistent temperatures around 60–70°F (15–21°C).
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome or plastic bag, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips, remove dead or leggy stems, deadhead spent flowers to redirect energy to new growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.
Tools
Sharp, clean pruners or scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune during dry conditions, remove only necessary parts, avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh well-draining soil, water lightly, and avoid direct sun for a few days.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; may need repotting if growth slows or soil dries out quickly.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size, prepare fresh soil mix, handle roots carefully, water after repotting, acclimate slowly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily, water when top inch is dry, ensure proper drainage, adjust for seasons.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture distribution; water deeply to encourage root growth; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Keep soil consistently moist, especially during active growth; reduce frequency in winter but do not let soil dry out completely.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage, incorporate organic matter for fertility, use a pH-adjusting agent if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback if exposed to prolonged freezing temperatures.
Solution: Protect from frost; provide a sheltered location; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may become leggy due to excessive heat.
Solution: Increase humidity, provide shade during peak sun, ensure adequate watering, move to a cooler location if possible.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, dilute fertilizer correctly, apply to moist soil, avoid contact with leaves.
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 sempervirens is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain any known toxic substances that would cause harm to cats if ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicViola sempervirens is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic compounds or adverse effects associated with this plant when ingested by dogs.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicViola sempervirens, commonly known as evergreen violet, is not considered toxic to humans. It is a non-toxic plant with no known adverse effects on human health.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Viola sempervirens toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade and can tolerate shade.
Q: How often should I water Viola sempervirens?
A: Water moderately, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Violaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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