Viola obtusa

(Makino) Makino

Violaceae Edible: Flowers, Leaves 82 iNaturalist observations

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Summary

Viola obtusa is a compact perennial reaching 10cm tall. Hermaphroditic flowers are pollinated by insects. It grows in light sandy, medium loamy, or heavy clay soils with good drainage. It tolerates semi-shade or full sun and requires moist soil with mildly acidic to neutral pH.

Description

Edible Uses

Young leaves and flower buds can be eaten raw or cooked. When added to soup, they act as a thickener much like okra. A tea can be brewed from the leaves. Some caution is advised if the plant has yellow flowers, as these can cause diarrhoea if eaten in large quantities.

Medicinal Uses

None known

Distribution

It is a temperate plant.

Where It Grows

Asia, Japan, Korea, Manchuria,

Propagation

Seed is best sown in autumn in a cold frame. Stored seed can be sown in early spring in a cold frame. Prick out seedlings into individual pots when large enough to handle and plant out in summer. Divide plants in autumn or just after flowering. Larger divisions can go straight into permanent positions, but smaller divisions are better potted up and grown on in light shade in a greenhouse or cold frame until establishing well, then planted out in summer or the following spring.