Viola brevistipulata

Viola brevistipulata is a small plant in the violet family, Violaceae. It is a perennial, which means it lives for years. Its native range lies in temperate parts of eastern Asia. Kew places it from the southern Russian Far East to Korea and Japan. In Japan, it grows in northern and central areas. Plants For A Future lists Hokkaido, Honshu, and the Kurile Islands. That source is unsure whether it grows in Korea. It is not native to Britain or Ireland.

The plant reaches about 1 foot [0.3 metres] in height. Kew calls it a perennial or a rhizomatous geophyte. This means its lasting growth may include rhizomes, or underground stems. The sources give no mature spread or growth rate. They give no leaf shape or stem colour for this species. The flowers have both male and female organs. Insects pollinate them. The sources give no bloom season or fruit details for this species.

In Japan, this violet grows in damp, shaded mountain sites. Plants For A Future says it prefers moist soil. It accepts sand, loam, and clay soils that drain well. Soil can range from slightly acid to neutral. The species entry allows both light shade and full sun. It suggests dappled shade or a sunny woodland edge for gardens. These uses suit its small size and need for moisture. The cited account is unsure of its hardiness in Britain. It gives no firm hardiness zone.

Plants For A Future gives methods for seed sowing and division. It says to sow fresh seed in autumn in a cold frame. Sow stored seed there in early spring. Move seedlings to their own pots when large enough to handle. The account suggests moving them outside to plant in summer. Divide plants in autumn or when they finish blooming. Grow small divisions under cover in light shade before planting out.

Records note food uses for young leaves and flower buds. People can eat them raw or cooked. They can also thicken soup, while leaves can make tea. The source rates their food use at two out of five. It records no known uses as medicine or for other purposes. It lists no known hazards, but this does not establish safety. The evidence names no pest or disease problems for this species.