Labrador Violet, Alpine violet, Johnny Jump-Up, Alpine Violet

Viola labradorica

Physical Characteristics

Viola labradorica is an evergreen Perennial growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in) by 0.3 m (1ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 2 and is not frost tender. It is in leaf all year, in flower from April to May. 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 full shade (deep woodland) semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

North-eastern N. America - Labrador, south to the mountains of Maine, New Hampshire and New York.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; not Deep Shade; Ground Cover;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Leaves Edible Uses: Tea Young leaves and flower buds - raw or cooked[105]. A mild flavour, though the leaves soon become quite tough[K]. The leaves make a very acceptable addition to salads[K]. When added to soup they thicken it in much the same way as okra[85, 159]. A tea can be made from the leaves[85].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known