Species striped cream violet
white-purple flowers with white hairs, lime-green leaves and pink-green stems

striped cream violet

Viola striata

The striped cream violet (Viola striata) is a native perennial of the Pacific Northwest. It has heart-shaped green and white mottled leaves and delicate white and lavender flowers with purple stripes. Its flowers bloom in early spring and are attractive to bees and other pollinators. The plants prefer moist but well-drained soil in partial shade or dappled sun and can be grown in rock gardens, woodland areas, and moist bank gardens. The roots of striped cream viollets can be harvested and cooked and are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 7

Flowers:

Pale violet/white Flowers

Sun:

Part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

watering

This pretty little plant species prefers moist soil, so it should be watered regularly, especially during the warmer months of the year. Whenever the soil is dry to the touch up to a depth of 1 inch, water until it is moist all the way through. During the colder months, reduce that to once a week or 2. In either case, always make sure to never let the soil completely dry out. Watering with a watering can or hose is recommended, but avoid getting the leaves wet as it could increase the risk of fungal disease or rot.

sunlight

Striped cream violets prefer a bright, sunny location for at least part of the day. Aim for 4-6 hours of direct sunlight each day if possible. Morning sunlight is preferable since it is less intense than afternoon sunlight and the flowers will not dry out. If the striped cream violets are grown in full sun, be sure to provide adequate water when the soil is dry.

pruning

Striped cream violet (Viola striata) should be pruned in late winter or early spring for healthier growth and flowering. Generally, pruning should take place when the plant is dormant. Start by removing any dead, diseased or damaged growth. Then prune back remaining stems by about 1-third to 1-half of their original length. This will encourage bushier and more vigorous new growth, and increase flowering during the summer bloom season. Also, removing any flower stalks soon after they are done blooming encourages a new set of blossoms to appear. Lastly, be sure to sharpen your pruning tools regularly as sharp blades cause less damage to plants.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Viola striata typically starts flowering in April.

Hardiness Map