Viola collina aka Hill Violet

Viola collina is a small perennial in the violet family, Violaceae. Its native range spans the temperate parts of Europe and Asia. It is not native to Britain or Ireland. Records place it across Russia, Central Asia, China, Japan and Korea. In China, it grows in woods, thickets and grasslands. It also occurs at woodland edges and on grassy slopes. Other sites include mountain valleys and damp ground beside roads.

The plant reaches about 0.33 feet [0.1 metres] in height. Its low growth makes it a small plant for cultivated beds. The available sources give no firm figure for its spread. They also give few details about its leaves or stems. Its flowers are usually purple-toned and appear from March to May. Each flower has both male and female organs. Insects pollinate the flowers, and seeds ripen from June to August.

Plants For A Future lists sun and light shade as suitable. It also lists sandy, loamy and clay soils as suitable. The soil should stay moist but allow excess water to drain. Mildly acid and neutral soils fall within its stated range. The source also notes an association with lime-rich ground in Europe. These records do not establish a precise garden hardiness limit. The source suggests it may survive outdoors across much of Britain. It makes clear that this view rests on its native range.

Young leaves and flower buds can be eaten raw or cooked. The leaves can also serve as a tea ingredient. Added to soup, the young leaves and buds help thicken it. Plants For A Future gives its food value two out of five. It lists no known hazards for the species. This is not the same as a tested pet-safety rating. The source records no known medicinal uses or other uses.

Seed and division offer ways to raise more plants. Sow fresh seed in a cold frame during autumn. Stored seed can be sown there in early spring. Move seedlings into pots once they are large enough to handle. Plant them outside in summer. Divide plants in autumn or just after they finish flowering. Keep small divisions in pots until they grow well. The supplied sources name no specific pests or diseases.