Viola labradorica aka American Dog Violet

Taxonomy

Viola labradorica, also known as alpine violet, American dog violet, dog violet, or Labrador violet, is a low-growing, spreading perennial herbaceous plant. It features evergreen, purple-tinged, heart-shaped leaves that can reach up to 2.5cm across. This plant is native to Greenland, eastern Canada, and the eastern United States. However, it should be noted that the Viola labradorica sold by nurseries is actually Viola riviniana. The flowers of Viola labradorica are small and lavender-blue, blooming on short stems during the spring. American Dog Violet, a rare houseplant, is easy to grow and requires regular watering to thrive. It thrives best in long-lasting, direct light and should be positioned within a foot of a window. Well-draining soil is ideal for this plant, and it typically does not require additional fertilizers if repotted each time it doubles in size. Belonging to the Viola genus, American Dog Violet is native to the Northern United States, Greenland, and Canada.

Common names

American Dog Violet, Alpine Violet, Labrador Violet

How to care for American Dog Violet

Difficulty

Caring for American Dog Violet is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.

Water

American Dog Violet should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

American Dog Violet loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Toxicity

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.

Humidity

The American Dog Violet does not need extra humidity. Plants primarily absorb water through their root system, making soil watering the best way to provide humidity to your plants.

Fertilizer

The American Dog Violet should be repotted when it has doubled in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing fresh potting soil with all the essential nutrients each year ensures the plant's well-being, eliminating the need for fertilizer. Remember, plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.

Growth-pattern

New growth will sprout from the top of the American Dog Violet as it grows vertically.

Region of origin

American Dog Violet’s native range is Temperate Northern Hemisphere.


More info:
Wikipedia