Origin and Common Names
Viola sempervirens Greene var. orbiculata (Geyer ex Holz.) J.K. Henry, commonly known as the round-leaved yellow violet, is a perennial plant species belonging to the Violaceae family. Its origin is North America, specifically found in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States and British Columbia in Canada. It grows in shady, damp forests, and along streambanks.
General Appearance
The round-leaved yellow violet has basal leaves that are round to oval and grow up to 12 cm wide. The smooth, shiny leaves have scalloped edges and emerge in the spring with clusters of bright yellow flowers, each measuring about 2 cm in diameter. The stems can reach about 25 cm tall, and each plant can have up to 20 flowers.
Uses
The round-leaved yellow violet is not commonly used in herbal medicine but is occasionally used in homeopathic remedies for ailments such as skin rashes and sore throats. The plant is also popular for its ornamental value, often used for rock gardens, woodland borders, or shaded wild gardens. However, it is important to note that the plant is considered a rare species and may require special protocols to be cultivated and cared for properly.
Light Conditions
Viola sempervirens Greene var. orbiculata thrives in full to partial sunlight. Ideal location would be a sunny spot in the afternoon, with partial shade during the morning. The plant can survive in partial shade, but blooming may be lessened. It is important to maintain a consistent lighting condition when cultivating this plant.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in mild to cool temperatures. Ideal temperature for growth is between 10°C to 20°C. Viola sempervirens Greene var. orbiculata will also grow in higher temperatures, but the plant may wither in hotter, dry conditions. Optimum growth temperature range may vary depending on the location and time of year.
Soil Conditions
The plant prefers well-drained soil with moderate moisture, it can grow in both acidic and alkaline soils. The ideal soil should be rich in organic matter with a pH range of 5-7.5. The plant may tolerate drier soil, but too much moisture may cause root rot. Furthermore, adding compost and organic material to the soil will support healthier growth.
Cultivation Methods
The Viola sempervirens Greene var. orbiculata (Geyer ex Holz.) J.K. Henry plant prefers well-drained soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. It thrives in partial shade to full sun environments and can grow in areas with low to moderate rainfall. It is recommended to plant viola sempervirens in the spring, which is the growing season of the plant. The plant can propagate from seeds or cuttings, which should be kept moist until roots begin to form.
Watering Needs
Viola sempervirens Greene var. orbiculata (Geyer ex Holz.) J.K. Henry requires consistent moisture levels to grow well. The plant should not be allowed to dry out completely between watering, but it is also important to avoid overwatering. A good rule of thumb is to water the plant when the top layer of soil becomes dry to the touch. During periods of low rainfall, the plant will require additional watering.
Fertilization
Viola sempervirens Greene var. orbiculata (Geyer ex Holz.) J.K. Henry can benefit from regular fertilization. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer applied once a month during the growing season can help encourage healthy growth and vibrant blooms. The fertilizer should be applied according to the package instructions, and care should be taken not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to weak growth and reduced resistance to disease and pests.
Pruning
Regular pruning of Viola sempervirens Greene var. orbiculata (Geyer ex Holz.) J.K. Henry can help promote bushier growth and more blooms. Deadheading spent blooms and trimming back leggy growth can help keep the plant looking tidy and healthy. Pruning should be done in the early spring while the plant is still dormant, or after blooming has finished in the late summer or early fall.
Propagation of Viola sempervirens Greene var. orbiculata (Geyer ex Holz.) J.K. Henry
Viola sempervirens Greene var. orbiculata (Geyer ex Holz.) J.K. Henry, commonly known as the round-leaved yellow violet or simply roundleaf violet is a native plant species found in the Western United States. This delicate plant grows best in shaded or partially shaded areas and can be propagated through various methods.
Seed Propagation
One of the most common propagation methods for Viola sempervirens is seed propagation. The plant produces tiny seeds that can be harvested in late summer or early fall and sown immediately. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining potting mix and covered lightly with soil or kept on the surface. They should be kept moist and placed in a warm location with filtered light. The seeds will usually germinate within 2-3 weeks.
Dropping Propagation
Another way to propagate roundleaf violets is through dropping propagation. This method involves digging up a clump of the plant in the spring or fall and shaking off the soil. The clump is then gently pulled apart or "dropped" into smaller pieces, and the smaller pieces are replanted in a well-draining potting mix. The new plants should be kept moist and placed in a shady or partially shaded location until they are reestablished.
Division Propagation
Division propagation is another method to propagate Viola sempervirens. This method is similar to dropping propagation, but the plant is dug up and divided into multiple sections with a knife or shears. Each section should have a healthy root system and several leaves. The divisions are then replanted in a well-draining potting mix and kept moist until they are reestablished.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Viola sempervirens Greene var. orbiculata (Geyer ex Holz.) J.K. Henry, is a beautiful perennial plant that can be propagated through several methods. Whether you choose to propagate through seeds, droppings, or division, providing the plant with proper care and attention will allow it to flourish and provide beautiful, delicate blooms.
Disease Management
Viola sempervirens Greene var. orbiculata is susceptible to various fungal and bacterial diseases. Proper care and maintenance can help prevent and manage the growth of these diseases.
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes brownish-black spots on leaves and flowers. To manage this disease, prune affected plant parts, remove plant debris, and apply fungicides regularly.
Downy Mildew: Downy mildew is a fungal disease that causes a yellowish-gray powdery mold on the leaves. This type of the disease likes damp and humid environments. Therefore, watering plants from below and providing good air circulation can help manage the growth of this disease.
Bacterial Leaf Spot: Bacterial leaf spot is a disease that causes black spots on leaves, and it can spread quickly in warm, wet environments. To control the spread of this disease, prune affected areas, increase air circulation around plants, and avoid using overhead watering systems.
Pest Management
Insects and pests can also pose a threat to Viola sempervirens Greene var. orbiculata. Here are some common pests to watch out for and ways to manage them.
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck the sap from the plants, causing stunted growth and deformities of leaves and flowers. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong stream of water or apply insecticidal soaps. Encouraging the presence of natural predators, such as ladybugs, can also help manage the growth of aphids.
Spider Mites: Spider Mites can cause discoloration of leaves that looks like white stippling. These tiny pests can quickly spread from plant to plant, making them difficult to manage. To control spider mites, increase humidity around the plant, prune affected areas, and apply insecticidal soaps or neem oil.
Slugs and Snails: These pests love to feed on the leaves and flowers of Viola sempervirens Greene var. orbiculata, leaving behind a trail of slime. To manage the growth of slugs and snails, pick them by hand or place saucers of beer near the plant as it attracts them and they drown in the liquid. Additionally, creating barriers from sawdust or eggshells can also help control their spread.
Regular inspection of the plant can help identify early signs of disease or pest infestation and manage their growth more effectively.
