Dog Violet

Viola canina L.

Dog Violet is a special type of violet with beautiful purple flowers. It grows in woods and is a favorite of many insects.

Habitat: Woodlands and shady areas

Appearance

The Dog Violet has small, beautiful blue-violet flowers, often with darker streaks near the center, and heart-shaped leaves. Unlike its "sweet" cousins, these unscented blooms grow on upright stems that can reach up to 25 cm tall, making them distinct.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderMalpighialesFamilyViolaceaeGenusViola

Dog Violet

Interesting facts

After blooming, this clever plant can make hidden flowers that never open but still produce seeds!

It's called 'dog' violet because it doesn't have a strong scent like other violets!

Some butterfly caterpillars, like Fritillaries, absolutely love munching on Dog Violet leaves!

You can eat the leaves and flowers – they're good in salads or as a colourful garnish!

Special abilities

Dog Violet can grow closed flowers that self-pollinate, ensuring it makes seeds even if no insects visit!

Dog Violet's seeds have a tasty treat for ants, who carry them far away to help new plants grow.

Dog Violet can adjust its leaf angle to catch more sunlight in shady spots or protect itself in bright areas.

Measurements & details

Height: 10-25 cm
Spread: 15-30 cm
Flower Size: 1-2.5 cm
Bloom Season: Spring to early summer
Is Edible: Yes
Toxicity: None
Lifecycle: Perennial
Pollination Method: Insect

Ecological connections

pollinates

European Honey Bee

Apis mellifera

Collects nectar and pollen

depends on

Dark Green Fritillary

Argynnis aglaja

Caterpillars feed on leaves

symbiotic with

European Red Ant

Myrmica rubra

Disperses seeds for elaiosome

eaten by

Roe Deer

Capreolus capreolus

Browses on leaves and flowers

Traits

Flowering

These are the plants that produce beautiful blossoms, attracting pollinators and adding splashes of color to our world. Each flower is a tiny marvel!

Shade Tolerant

Discover plants that love to live in the shadows, growing beautifully and happily even in spots where the sun doesn't shine all day long.

Forest

These lush habitats are filled with countless trees, offering homes to a huge variety of plants and animals! Immerse yourself in the green canopy.

Pollinator

Meet the busy helpers of the plant world! These creatures carry pollen from one flower to another, helping plants make seeds and grow fruits and vegetables.