Origin and Common Names
Viola ×lavandulacea Bickn. is a hybrid plant that is a cross between Viola cornuta and Viola odorata. It belongs to the Violaceae family and is commonly known as Lavender-blue and Lavender viola. The plant is native to Europe and is widely distributed across the continent. It has also been introduced to other parts of the world such as North America and Asia.
General Appearance
Viola ×lavandulacea Bickn. is a small, compact perennial plant that grows up to 30 cm in height and spreads up to 30 cm wide. The plant has dark green, heart-shaped leaves that grow in a rosette pattern. The flowers are typically lavender-blue in color, with a yellow throat and a distinct white eye. The blooms appear in the spring and continue throughout the summer months.
Uses
Viola ×lavandulacea Bickn. has several uses in traditional medicine and horticulture. The plant contains antioxidants and phytochemicals that are known to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and sedative properties. It has been used to treat headaches, insomnia, anxiety, and depression.
In horticulture, the Lavender-blue and Lavender viola are popular ornamental plants that are grown in rock gardens, borders, and containers. The plant prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate partial shade. It is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care and can be easily propagated through seeds or cuttings.
Light Requirements
The Viola ×lavandulacea Bickn. plant prefers to grow in full sun to partial shade. It needs at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day to grow well.
Temperature Requirements
The Viola ×lavandulacea Bickn. plant grows well in moderate temperatures. It thrives in warmer regions and collapses during extreme cold. Ideally, it requires an average temperature range of 60-75°F (15-24°C) to grow.
Soil Requirements
Viola ×lavandulacea Bickn. prefers well-drained, rich soil that is slightly acidic. It doesn't grow well in waterlogged soil because its roots will not get enough oxygen, causing root rot. A pH of 6.0-7.5 is ideal for its growth. Adding compost or organic matter to the soil provides necessary nutrients to the plant to grow healthy and strong.
Cultivation
Viola ×lavandulacea Bickn. is commonly called lavender pansy and is a hybrid plant that requires a well-draining, fertile soil for growth. Ensure that the planting site is slightly acidic, with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5, and receives plenty of sunlight. The pansy grows best in cool temperatures and requires moderate watering.
Watering Needs
Watering pansies is crucial to their growth and survival. The plants should receive at least one inch of water per week, either through watering or rainfall. To avoid overwatering, it is best to water them at soil level and avoid splashing water on their leaves. Ensure you water the plants early in the day to prevent fungal diseases.
Fertilization
V. ×lavandulacea requires regular fertilization during its growing period. Use a well-balanced, slow-release fertilizer with a high level of phosphorous to promote healthy root formation and flowering. An application of fertilizer every three weeks throughout the growing season is ideal.
Pruning
Regular pruning promotes bushy growth and helps to keep lavender pansies healthy. Dead or yellowing leaves should be removed promptly to avoid the spread of diseases. To promote new growth and flowering, cut back your lavender pansies by approximately one-third of their size after their initial bloom cycle. Regular deadheading of spent flowers is also recommended.
Propagation of Viola ×lavandulacea Bickn.
Viola ×lavandulacea Bickn. can be propagated through different methods such as seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds can be collected from ripe seed pods, which are ready for harvesting about six weeks after the plant has flowered. Once collected, the seeds should be cleaned, dried, and stored in a cool, dry place until planting time. Plant the seeds in a well-drained potting mix and keep moist. Germination should occur within 14 to 28 days.
Propagation by Cuttings
Cuttings should be taken from healthy parent plants, preferably in the spring or early summer. The cuttings should be 3 to 4 inches long and should have several leaves. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cuttings in rooting hormone powder. Plant the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix and keep them moist, but not waterlogged. Roots should start to form within 2 to 3 weeks.
Propagation by Division
Viola ×lavandulacea Bickn. can also be propagated by division in the fall or spring. Dig up the parent plant and separate the clumps into smaller sections. Make sure each section has healthy roots and leaves. Replant the divided plants in a well-draining potting mix and keep them moist until they are established.
Disease and Pest Management for Viola ×lavandulacea Bickn.
Viola ×lavandulacea Bickn., commonly known as lavender-leaved violet, is susceptible to various diseases and pests like any other plant species. To ensure optimal growth and health of the plant, it is crucial to keep a close watch on any signs of damage caused by pests or diseases. Below are some common diseases and pests that might affect Viola ×lavandulacea Bickn. and ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that causes the plant's roots to rot, leading to stunted growth, wilting, and eventually death. To manage root rot, remove any infected plant debris from the soil, avoid over-watering, and ensure proper drainage. Additionally, the use of fungicides can help prevent the spread of the disease.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that attacks the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant, resulting in a powdery white substance on their surfaces. The disease can cause the affected plant parts to wither and eventually die. To manage powdery mildew, remove any infected plant parts, ensure adequate spacing between plants, and apply a fungicide to the plant as needed.
Common Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing the leaves to curl and turn yellow. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or oil, or manually remove the insects with a strong stream of water.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap of the plant, causing dry, yellow leaves and webbing on the plant's surfaces. To manage spider mites, regularly inspect the plant for any signs of infestation and use an insecticidal oil or soap to eliminate them.
Slugs and Snails: Slugs and snails are pests that leave slimy trails on the plant's surfaces and chew on the leaves, causing visible damage. To manage slugs and snails, remove any debris around the plant that may provide a hiding spot, apply copper tape around the plant, or use bait traps to prevent their entry.
Regularly checking your Viola ×lavandulacea Bickn. for signs of pests and diseases is crucial to ensure its optimal health and growth. By following the above disease and pest management techniques, you can keep this beautiful plant thriving in your garden.
