Plant Details

Viola odorato, Viola spp.

Violet

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Explore the size, hardiness, soil, light, edible uses and harvest period of Viola odorato, Viola spp..

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Common names

4 names · 3 languages
EnglishYour language
  • Violet
Other languages (2)
Dutch
  • Maarts viooltje
  • Viooltje
French
  • Violette
Sources & name notes

Names recorded in our plant catalogue, grouped by language. Usage can vary by region.

General information

Scientific name: Viola odorato, Viola spp.
Botanical family: Violaceae

Kew's family placement for the genus Viola (WCVP v16).

Sources [1]
Also known as: Violet

Plant characteristics

Layer: Herbaceous, Ground cover
Catalogue size class: Small
Height: 0.10 m
Spread: 0.50 m
Growth rate: Fast
Foliage: None

Growing conditions

USDA hardiness: 4-8
Soil moisture:
Moist
Soil:
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)
pH:
Acidic Neutral Alkaline
Light:
Partial shade, Full sun

Uses

Edible parts:
Leaves, Flowers, Condiment, Tea
Edibility rating:
(5)
Medicinal rating:
(3)
Functions:
Essential oil, Ground cover, Fragrant

Description

Young leaves and flower buds of this plant can be eaten both raw and cooked and are usually available throughout the entire winter season. The leaves have a mild flavor but become tough as they age. They are perfect for salads, where they can be added in large quantities. They can also be used to thicken soups, similar to okra. Additionally, they are used as a flavoring in dishes such as pudding. Tea can be made from the leaves. The flowers of the plant can be eaten raw and are often used to decorate salads and desserts due to their sweet, mild flavor and subtle aroma. They make an attractive addition to salads, especially as they are available in late winter. The flowers are also used fresh to give candies and dessert dishes a flavorful and colorful touch. Both the leaves and flowers can be used to make a soothing tea. Extracts from the leaves are used to flavor candies, pastries, and ice cream.

Harvest

Harvest starts: 01/03
Harvest ends: 31/10

Sources and references

References for the information marked with source numbers on this page.

Sources checked
  1. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew World Checklist of Vascular Plants, version 16, extracted 4 June 2026
    Supports: Botanical family
    Relevant sections
    • Botanical family: WCVP v16, wcvp_names.csv row 567470; name ID 2463495; Viola L.. Family column.

    Source checked on .

    Source data licence: CC BY 3.0.