Viola

Viola is a genus of flowering plants in the violet family Violaceae. It is the largest genus in the family, containing between 525 and 600 species. Most species are found in the temperate Northern Hemisphere; however, some are also found in widely divergent areas such as Hawaii, Australasia, and the Andes.

Description

Members of the genus Viola are most commonly perennial plants, some are annual plants, and a few are small shrubs. A large number of species, varieties and cultivars are grown in gardens for their ornamental flowers. In horticulture the term "pansy" is normally used for those multi-colored, large-flowered cultivars which are raised annually or biennially from seed and used extensively in bedding. The terms "viola" and "violet" are normally reserved for small-flowered annuals or perennials, including the wild species.

Distribution and habitat

Viola species are distributed around the world, with the greatest diversity in the temperate regions of the world, and are found in habitats ranging from alpine meadows to bog environments.

Cultivation

Violas are widely cultivated as garden plants, for their bright, cheerfully colored flowers. The many cultivars of this genus are grouped into several categories, including the large-flowered Pansies and the smaller-flowered Violets.

Uses

Violas are used as food plants by the larvae of some Lepidoptera species. The flowers and leaves of the wild species and cultivars are edible, and are often used in salads or as garnish.

See also

• List of Viola species
• Violet (color)

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