Canada Violet, Canadian white violet, Creepingroot violet

Viola canadensis

Physical Characteristics

Viola canadensis is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.4 m (1ft 4in) by 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower from April to July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. 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

N. America - Saskatchewan and south to Nebraska and the Rocky mountains.

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[62, 177, 183]. A very mild flavour, when boiled as greens they are best mixed with other stronger tasting leaves[183]. When added to soup they thicken it in much the same way as okra[62, 85, 159]. Flowers - raw[62, 85]. The leaves are a good tea substitute[62, 85, 183].

Medicinal Uses

Emetic Poultice A tea made from the roots has been used in the treatment of pain in the bladder region[222, 257]. The roots and leaves have traditionally been used to induce vomiting, they have also been poulticed and applied to skin abrasions and boils[222].

Known Hazards

None known