While laypeople simply say violets, botanists have more precise names. Not all violets are the same. But the most famous violet is probably the fragrant violet, also known as the March violet. Here is a brief overview of its characteristics in profile format and described in more detail.
What does the profile of the scented violet look like?
The fragrant violet (Viola odorata) belongs to the violet plant family and is particularly common in central and southern Europe. It grows 10-20 cm high, prefers semi-shady locations and blooms with purple flowers from March to April/May. The plant has a healing effect and is used as a medicinal, fragrant and ornamental plant.
Short and to the point
- Plant family: Violet family
- Botanical name: Viola odorata
- Main occurrence: Central and Southern Europe
- Growth: 10 to 20 cm high
- Leaves: green, stalked, notched
- Flowering time: March to April/May
- Flowers: violet
- Location: partially shaded
- Soil: permeable, humic, moderately dry to fresh
- Care: no special care requirements
- Propagation: self-seeding, runners
- Use: Medicinal plant, scented plant, ornamental plant
A medicinal plant from earlier times
Of the more than 500 species of violets, the fragrant violet is the best known. In earlier times it was valued and used as a medicinal plant. The saponins it contains and the high salicylic acid content are primarily responsible for its healing effects. Consumption has, among other things, an expectorant, diuretic and expectorant effect.
The home of the violet
Today the violet is mainly found in Central and Southern Europe. It likes to inhabit forest edges and bushes. But it can also be found on lawns in residential areas. It prefers to be in warm partial shade.
Growth, leaves, flowers and fruits
While the roots of the violets fight for a large territory underground, many runners emerge. The plant grows between 5 and 10 cm on the surface. It is perennial and herbaceous.
The leaves form a rosette that covers the ground beneath them. They are grass green in color and stalked. The long stem ends in a leaf blade that has a heart-shaped base. Overall, the leaves are kidney-shaped to egg-shaped. Its edge shows many notches.
From March to April the fragrant violet is in its blooming period. It often feels stimulated to bloom again in the fall and blooms from September to October. Its flowers are fragrant and dark purple to purple in color. They later produce small capsule fruits with three valves.
Tips & Tricks
No matter which violet - all types of violets are non-toxic and edible. Thanks to their pretty flowers, they also make an attractive component as a garnish for dishes.
