Origin
Viola sororia Willd. var. missouriensis (Greene) McKinney, more commonly known as Missouri violet, is a flowering herbaceous perennial known for its hardiness. It is native to North America, specifically the central and eastern regions of the United States and southern Canada.
Common Names
Besides Missouri violet, the plant goes by several other common names, including hooded blue violet, common meadow violet, and woolly blue violet.
Uses
Missouri violet is often used as a ground cover in woodland gardens, shade gardens, and meadows. It is a great addition to any perennial border or naturalized area. Besides its ornamental value, the plant is also used medicinally for its anti-inflammatory properties and has been used to treat respiratory ailments such as asthma and cough.
Appearance
Missouri violet typically grows up to 6-8 inches tall and spreads through runners or rhizomes, forming dense colonies over time. It features heart-shaped leaves that are hairy, slightly toothed, and range from light to dark green in color. The flowers of the plant are the showstopper, with purple-blue petals and a yellow stigma that sets them apart from other violets. They bloom from March to August and are a crucial source of nectar for bees and butterflies.
Light requirements
Viola sororia Willd. var. missouriensis prefers partial to full shade, but can also tolerate full sun in cooler climates. In areas with intense heat, it should be provided with afternoon shade.
Temperature requirements
The plant can thrive in a wide range of temperatures, from cool to hot. It prefers temperatures between 60-80°F (15-26.6°C) during the day, and 50-60°F (10-15°C) at night. Viola sororia Willd. var. missouriensis can tolerate frost and freezing temperatures, but not extreme heat.
Soil requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soil pH levels, but prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils with pH levels between 5.5-7.0. The ideal soil moisture level is moist to slightly dry, but the plant can tolerate brief periods of flooding.
Cultivation Methods for Viola sororia Willd. var. missouriensis (Greene) McKinney
Viola sororia Willd. var. missouriensis (Greene) McKinney is a low-maintenance and hardy plant that can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 7. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and grows best in partial shade to full sun. The plant can be propagated through seeds or division.
When sowing seeds, it is recommended to start indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost and transplant outdoors in the spring. Division can be done in the spring or fall by dividing the plant into smaller clumps and replanting in well-prepared soil.
Watering Needs for Viola sororia Willd. var. missouriensis (Greene) McKinney
Viola sororia Willd. var. missouriensis (Greene) McKinney prefers consistently moist soil but can tolerate brief periods of drought. It is important not to overwater the plant, as it may lead to rotting.
It is best to water the plant deeply once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid getting the leaves wet, as it may lead to fungal infections.
Fertilization for Viola sororia Willd. var. missouriensis (Greene) McKinney
Viola sororia Willd. var. missouriensis (Greene) McKinney is not a heavy feeder and does not require regular fertilization. However, an application of balanced fertilizer in the early spring can encourage healthy growth and flowering.
Avoid fertilizing in the late summer or fall, as it may stimulate new growth that could be damaged by frost.
Pruning for Viola sororia Willd. var. missouriensis (Greene) McKinney
Viola sororia Willd. var. missouriensis (Greene) McKinney does not require regular pruning, but deadheading or removing spent blooms can encourage additional flowering. It is best to remove the flowers just above the first set of leaves to promote branching and bushier growth.
In the fall, cut back the plant to the ground to prepare for the winter season.
Propagation of Viola sororia Willd. var. missouriensis (Greene) McKinney
Propagation of Viola sororia Willd. var. missouriensis (Greene) McKinney is typically done through two methods: seed propagation and division.
Seed Propagation
Viola sororia Willd. var. missouriensis (Greene) McKinney can be propagated via seeds. The ideal time to extract the seeds is during the fall. The seeds should not be dried out and can be sown directly in well-draining soil outdoors or in trays filled with sterile potting mix indoors. The trays or pots should be kept moist and placed in a warm and bright spot. Germination typically occurs within 10 to 20 days. After a month or two, the seedlings can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Division Propagation
Division propagation of Viola sororia Willd. var. missouriensis (Greene) McKinney is typically done in the spring or fall. The plant should be lifted from the ground and divided into multiple clumps. Each clump should have a healthy root system. The clumps can either be replanted in their original location or in a new area with the appropriate soil that is well-draining and moist, both of which are crucial for the success of division propagation.
Disease Management:
Viola sororia Willd. var. missouriensis is commonly known as Missouri violet and is generally a hardy plant, but it can be susceptible to some diseases. One of the most common diseases that can affect the plant is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew will cause white or gray powder on the leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage this disease, it is important to remove all dead plant material and increase air circulation around the plant. You can also use a fungicide spray, but be sure to follow the instructions on the label.
Rust is another disease that can affect the plant. Rust is identified by the presence of yellow, orange, or brown spots on the leaves and stems. To manage this disease, promptly remove the affected areas and destroy them. Ensure the plants have plenty of sunlight to promote drying and minimize contact with leaves.
Pest Management:
One of the common pests that can affect the Missouri violet is the whitefly. The whitefly is small and white with wings, and it tends to congregate on the underside of the leaves of the plant. To manage this pest, you can spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Additionally, you can use yellow sticky traps to capture the adults before they lay eggs and reproduce.
The Missouri violet can also be affected by slugs and snails. These pests tend to feed on the leaves of the plant, leaving behind holes and slime trails. To manage these pests, you can remove any hiding places for them, such as piles of debris or dense vegetation, and use copper tape or diatomaceous earth around the plant to create a barrier. You can also handpick the pests and relocate them away from the plant.
