Western Dog Violet, Hookedspur violet, Kirk's violet

Viola adunca

Basic Information

Family: Violaceae

Genus: viola

Plant ID (slug): viola-adunca

Numeric ID: 23981

USDA Hardiness: 4-8

Ratings

Physical Characteristics

Viola adunca is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower from April to May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects, Cleistogomy (self-pollinating without flowers ever opening). The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern and Western N. America - Alaska to California, also Ontario to Quebec and New Brunswick.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Leaves Edible Uses: Tea Young leaves and flower buds - raw or cooked[177, 183]. When added to soup they thicken it in much the same way as okra[62, 85, 159]. A tea can be made from the dried leaves[183].

Medicinal Uses

Analgesic Antiasthmatic Birthing aid Ophthalmic Poultice Salve An infusion of the leaves and roots has been used to treat stomach problems and asthma in children[257]. An infusion of the roots and leaves has been used as a wash and poultice on sore and swollen joints[257]. The roots and leaves have been chewed by women during childbirth[257]. A poultice of the chewed leaves has been applied to sore eyes[257]. A poultice of the crushed flowers has been applied to the side or chest in the treatment of pain[257].