Overview
Viola arvensis Murr. is a low-growing herbaceous plant with delicate purple flowers. It belongs to the Violaceae family, which is commonly known as the violet family.
Origin and Distribution
Viola arvensis Murr. is native to Europe but has now spread to other continents, including Asia and North America. In Europe, it is commonly found in the Mediterranean region, the Balkans, and Central Europe.
Common Names
Viola arvensis Murr. has several common names, including field pansy, wild pansy, pink-eyed pansy, and heartsease. It is called field pansy because it is commonly found growing in fields.
Uses
The plant has several uses, primarily in the field of herbal medicine. It is used to treat various health conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and fever. The plant contains flavonoids, tannins, and salicylic acid, which are responsible for its medicinal properties. Viola arvensis Murr. is also used to make natural dyes, and its flowers are sometimes added to salads for their mild, sweet flavor.
General Appearance
Viola arvensis Murr. is a small plant, reaching a height of only 5-15 cm. It has heart-shaped leaves that are lobed and toothed. The flowers are single, with five petals each, and are usually purple, but they can be white or pale pink. The plant blooms in the spring and summer, producing small fruits that are capsules containing seeds.
Light Requirements
Viola arvensis Murr. grows well in shade or partial shade. It prefers to be shielded from direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day. Shade-loving plants like this species are often found in woodland or forest edges, as they thrive in the dappled light that filters through the tree canopy.
Temperature Requirements
This species has been observed to grow in a wide range of temperatures, but they seem to prefer temperatures between 15-25°C (59-77°F).
While they can tolerate mild frost, extreme temperatures can kill the plant. Young plants seem to be the most sensitive to temperature variation and should be kept in ideal conditions.
Soil Requirements
Viola arvensis Murr. can grow in various types of soils, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. The soil must be moist, but not waterlogged. If grown in pots, ensure that there is adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging.
The pH range of the soil is not critical, but it should be within the range of 6.0 to 7.5. Adding compost or organic matter to the soil before planting can improve its fertility.
Cultivation Methods of Viola arvensis Murr.
Viola arvensis Murr. commonly known as field pansy, is easy to cultivate and can be grown in most types of soil. This plant prefers well-draining soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The ideal spot to cultivate this plant would be in an area that is shaded or receives partial sunlight.
It is recommended to propagate Viola arvensis Murr. through division or seed. Sow the seeds directly into the soil in the early spring or fall. Keep the soil moist until germination occurs. Thin out the plants 6 to 8 inches apart to avoid overcrowding. Water the newly planted seedlings regularly until they become established.
Watering Needs of Viola arvensis Murr.
Field pansies require regular watering during the growing season. Water the plants deeply once a week, rather than shallow watering more frequently. This will help the roots grow deeply and develop properly.
Be careful not to overwater the plants as Viola arvensis Murr. does not tolerate wet feet. Wet soil can lead to root rot and fungal diseases. Always check the soil moisture level before watering.
Fertilization of Viola arvensis Murr.
Field pansies are light feeders and do not require much fertilization. Incorporate a balanced, slow-release fertilizer into the soil at planting time. Reapply the fertilizer once or twice during the growing season if necessary, depending on soil quality and plant growth.
Excessive fertilization can lead to lush growth, which is prone to pest and disease problems. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, as this can encourage foliage growth and discourage flower production.
Pruning Viola arvensis Murr.
Pruning is not necessary for Viola arvensis Murr. However, if you want to promote bushier growth, pinch back the tips of the stem to encourage branching. Remove any yellowed or diseased foliage promptly to prevent the spread of disease. Deadheading spent flowers can also promote prolonged blooming.
Propagation methods for Viola arvensis Murr.
Viola arvensis Murr., also known as field pansy, is typically propagated through seeds and division.
Propagation through seeds
The most common propagation method for Viola arvensis Murr. is through seeds. Seeds should be sown in early spring or autumn. The seeds can be directly sown in the soil, or started indoors 6-8 weeks before outdoor planting. The seeds of Viola arvensis Murr. require light for germination, so they should not be covered with soil and must be pressed lightly into the soil to secure them in place. Germination typically occurs within 14-21 days, and seedlings should be thinned to 6 inches apart once they have grown to 2-3 inches in height.
Propagation through division
An alternative method of propagating Viola arvensis Murr. is through division. This method involves digging up the plant and carefully separating the root system. The roots should be divided into sections, with each section containing enough roots and shoots to grow into an individual plant. Divisions should be replanted in fresh, well-draining soil, and kept moist until new growth appears.
Disease Management
Viola arvensis Murr. is susceptible to a variety of diseases that can cause serious damage to the plant. The following are some common diseases and ways of managing them:
- Botrytis blight: This disease is caused by the fungus Botrytis cinerea and results in the formation of brown spots on the leaves and flowers. To manage this disease, remove any infected plant parts immediately and apply a fungicide containing copper.
- Downy mildew: Downy mildew is caused by the fungus Peronospora violae and results in the formation of yellow spots on the upper surface of the leaves. To control this disease, apply fungicides containing mancozeb or copper regularly throughout the growing season.
- Root rot: Root rot is caused by several fungal pathogens that can infect the roots and cause the plant to wilt and eventually die. To prevent this disease, avoid overwatering and ensure good drainage. If the disease is already present, remove any infected plant parts and apply a fungicide containing thiophanate-methyl.
Pest Management
In addition to diseases, Viola arvensis Murr. is also susceptible to pest infestations. Here are some common pests and ways of managing them:
- Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To control aphids, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Slugs and snails: Slugs and snails are common pests that can eat through the leaves and flowers of the plant. To manage them, remove any hiding places such as debris or weeds and apply a slug and snail bait around the base of the plant.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that can infest the plant and suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and dry out. To control them, spray the plant with a miticide containing pyrethrum or neem oil.
