Viola grypoceras

Physical Characteristics

Viola grypoceras is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). It is in flower from April to May, and the seeds ripen from June to August. 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, Korea.

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, 177]. When added to soup they thicken it in much the same way as okra[85, 159]. The flowers of this species are usually purplish to white[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

None known

Known Hazards

None known