Viola diffusa

Physical Characteristics

Viola diffusa is a ANNUAL growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in). It is in flower from March to May, and the seeds ripen from May to October. 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

E. Asia - China, Japan.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Leaves Edible Uses: Tea Young leaves and flower buds - raw or cooked[105]. When added to soup they thicken it in much the same way as okra[85, 159]. The flowers of this species are usually purplish or yellowish[266] - some caution is advised if the plant has yellow flowers since these can cause diarrhoea if eaten in large quantities[62]. A tea can be made from the leaves[85].

Medicinal Uses

Blood tonic Depurative Miscellany Blood tonic, depurative. Aids tissue regeneration[147]. The whole plant is used in the treatment of abscesses, aplastic anaemia, boils, cough, fever, gas, leukaemia, mastitis and mumps[218].

Known Hazards

None known