Origin:
Viola beckwithii Torr. & Gray ssp. glabrata M.S. Baker, commonly known as Great Basin yellow violet, is a subspecies of the viola beckwithii. This plant is native to the western United States, particularly in the Great Basin region. It can be found in various habitats such as sagebrush steppe, pine forests, rocky slopes, and meadows.
Common names:
The Great Basin yellow violet has several common names aside from its scientific name. It is also called smooth yellow violet, Beckwith yellow violet, and Beckwith's violet. The name "yellow violet" was given to this plant because of its yellow petals.
Uses:
Viola beckwithii Torr. & Gray ssp. glabrata M.S. Baker is known for its medicinal properties. It has been traditionally used by Native American tribes to alleviate respiratory illnesses, rheumatism, and headaches. The leaves and roots of this plant contain compounds that have antifungal, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
The Great Basin yellow violet is also admired for its ornamental value. It is often grown in gardens as an attractive ground cover or border plant. Its yellow petals and distinctive foliage make it a popular choice among gardeners and landscapers.
General appearance:
Viola beckwithii Torr. & Gray ssp. glabrata M.S. Baker is a low-growing perennial plant that can reach up to 6 inches in height. It has oblong, heart-shaped leaves that are arranged in a basal rosette. The leaves are smooth, shiny, and have scalloped edges.
The flowers of this plant bloom in spring and summer, producing yellow petals that are 1 to 1.5 inches in length. The petals have dark purple lines that radiate from the center of the flower. The fruit of the Great Basin yellow violet is a capsule that splits open to release tiny seeds.
Overall, the Viola beckwithii Torr. & Gray ssp. glabrata M.S. Baker is an attractive plant that offers both medicinal and ornamental value.
Light Requirements
Viola beckwithii Torr. & Gray ssp. glabrata M.S. Baker is a plant that requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It needs about 6 hours of direct sunlight every day to thrive. However, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can lead to foliage burn, which can damage the plant. Therefore, partial shade during the hottest part of the day is recommended, especially in areas with high temperatures.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to mountainous regions and hence prefers cooler temperatures. The optimal temperature range for its growth is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Higher temperatures can stress the plant and reduce its growth rate.
Additionally, Viola beckwithii Torr. & Gray ssp. glabrata M.S. Baker is a plant that can tolerate low temperatures and even frost to some extent. However, long periods of frost or extremely low temperatures can damage the plant's foliage and roots.
Soil Requirements
The Viola beckwithii Torr. & Gray ssp. glabrata M.S. Baker plant prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soils for optimal growth. It can also tolerate slightly alkaline soils. The soil should be rich with organic matter and have a pH of between 5.5 and 7.5.
Additionally, this plant requires soils that are moist but well-drained. It cannot tolerate waterlogged or poorly drained soils, which can lead to root rot and other diseases that can damage or kill the plant. Therefore, the soil should be consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Cultivation Methods
Viola beckwithii Torr. & Gray ssp. glabrata M.S. Baker requires well-draining soil to thrive. Therefore, it is vital to plant it in well-drained soil. The ideal soil pH range for this plant is between 6.0 to 7.5. Plant Viola beckwithii Torr. & Gray ssp. glabrata M.S. Baker in an area that receives full sunlight to partial shade. This plant is not cold hardy, so it is crucial to keep it warm during frosty weather conditions.
Watering Needs
Viola beckwithii Torr. & Gray ssp. glabrata M.S. Baker requires moderate watering. It is essential to ensure the soil remains moist but not soggy. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can kill the plant. Always water the plant at the base, avoiding getting water on the leaves, which could cause fungal growth or disease.
Fertilization
For Viola beckwithii Torr. & Gray ssp. glabrata M.S. Baker, fertilize during the growing season using an all-purpose fertilizer with a balanced nutrient ratio. The ideal time to fertilize is in the early spring before planting or during the beginning of the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to too much vegetation and fewer flowers.
Pruning
Prune Viola beckwithii Torr. & Gray ssp. glabrata M.S. Baker to remove dead flowers, stems, and leaves. Deadheading also encourages new blooms to develop. Prune the plant during the growing season regularly. Avoid pruning the viola plant after the fall season, as this can harm the plant's growth and prevent new blooms from developing in the spring.
Propagation of Viola beckwithii Torr. & Gray ssp. glabrata M.S. Baker
Viola beckwithii Torr. & Gray ssp. glabrata M.S. Baker, also known as the Great Basin yellow violet, can be propagated by various methods including seed propagation, division, and cutting propagation.
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is the most common way to propagate Viola beckwithii. Sow fresh seeds in a well-draining potting medium in early spring or just before the onset of winter. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and keep moist until germination, which usually occurs in 2 to 3 weeks. Once the seedlings have grown to a height of 3 to 4 inches, transplant them to their permanent location.
Division propagation
Viola beckwithii can also be propagated through division. Divide established clumps in early spring before new growth begins. Carefully dig up the clump and gently separate the individual plants, ensuring that each division has enough roots and leaves. Replant the divisions at the same depth as the parent plant and water thoroughly.
Cutting propagation
Cutting propagation is a less commonly used method to propagate Viola beckwithii. Take 2- to 3-inch stem cuttings in late spring or early summer from healthy plants. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining potting medium. Keep the soil moist and place the cuttings in a shaded area. Rooting should occur in 4 to 6 weeks, after which the new plants can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Disease Management for Viola beckwithii Torr. & Gray ssp. glabrata M.S. Baker
Viola beckwithii Torr. & Gray ssp. glabrata M.S. Baker is a susceptible plant when it comes to diseases. Common diseases that may affect the plant include Gray Mold, Botrytis Blight, Root Rot, and Leaf Spot.
For Gray Mold and Botrytis Blight, it is important to maintain good airflow around the plants and reduce humidity levels. Regular pruning of dead and dying plant material is also recommended. Fungicides like copper-based products can be used to control these diseases in severe cases.
Root rot is mainly caused due to overwatering or drainage problems. To prevent this, it is important to ensure that the soil has good drainage. Adding pebbles or coarse sand to the soil mix can help improve drainage. It is also essential not to allow the soil to remain waterlogged for long periods. Use of fungicides near the root zone can be useful in controlling root rot.
Leaf spots are usually caused due to fungus and may cause significant damage. When dealing with Leaf Spot, it is essential to promptly remove any infected leaves and discard them away from the plant. The application of a fungicide spray can help eradicate these fungal diseases.
Pest Management for Viola beckwithii Torr. & Gray ssp. glabrata M.S. Baker
Viola beckwithii Torr. & Gray ssp. glabrata M.S. Baker is a plant that is susceptible to pests like Aphids, Spider Mites, and Leafhoppers. These pests can cause structural damage to the plant and reduce its overall growth.
Aphids can be removed through the application of a strong jet of water, which will wash them off the plant. Insecticidal soap can be applied to control these pests, making sure that the solution comes into contact with the aphids.
Leafhoppers and Spider Mites can be controlled by using a combination of horticultural oils and insecticidal soaps. Both pests love hot, dry weather, so it's essential to adequately irrigate the plants and keep them moist. These pests can also transmit diseases, so control measures must be taken as soon as possible.
Regular monitoring of the plant, sterilization of garden tools, and the use of insect-resistant cultivars can help to control pests and diseases. It is essential to act quickly to prevent damage to the plant and ensure its overall health and growth.
