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Dog Violet Wikimedia Commons
Violaceae

Dog Violet

Viola riviniana

Modesty and faithfulness.

Family
Violaceae
Genus
Viola
Native to
Europe, North Africa, Western Asia
Bloom season
Spring
Type
Herbaceous perennial
Height
0.05-0.2 meters
Sunlight
Partial shade to full shade
Soil
Moist, well-drained
Water
Moderate
Hardiness
4-8
Lifespan
Perennial

Did you know

  • Dog violet is called 'dog' because it lacks the sweet scent of Viola odorata, implying it is inferior.
  • It is the most common wild violet in Europe, found in woodlands, hedgerows, and grasslands.
  • The plant produces two types of flowers: showy spring ones and hidden self-pollinating ones in summer.
  • It is the primary food plant for several fritillary butterfly caterpillars in Europe.
  • In medieval times, violets were strewn on floors to freshen rooms and ward off illness.

Color meanings

0

Modesty

1

Faithfulness

2

Watchfulness

Uses

  • Woodland gardens
  • Ground cover
  • Butterfly habitat
  • Wildflower meadows