Shrubby violet (Viola arborescens, Sp. Pl.: 935 (1753))

Family: Violaceae

Author: L.

Bibliography: Sp. Pl.: 935 (1753)

Year: 1753

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Viola

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: W. Medit.

Description

The shrubby violet, also known by its scientific name, Viola arborescens, is a captivating member of the Violaceae family. First described in 1753, this enchanting plant holds a special place in botanical history.

Native to the Western Mediterranean region, the shrubby violet is a perennial plant that stands out not just for its delicate beauty, but also for its resilience and adaptability. This hardy plant thrives in the mild, sunny climates characteristic of its native habitat. Generally forming low, bushy growth, the shrubby violet presents a charming, compact silhouette that makes it an excellent ornamental choice for gardens seeking a touch of natural elegance.

The foliage of Viola arborescens is composed of alternately arranged, lance-shaped leaves that exhibit a subtle, dark green hue. These leaves provide a perfect backdrop for the plant’s true highlight: its flowers. Blooming primarily in spring, the shrubby violet adorns itself with an array of small but striking blossoms. Each flower is a delicate purple, exuding a soft, natural allure that has fascinated botanists and gardening enthusiasts alike. The flowers typically feature five petals, a common characteristic among members of the Violaceae family, with a slight bilateral symmetry that enhances their visual appeal.

Aside from its ornamental appeal, the shrubby violet also holds ecological significance. As a native plant, it plays a role in supporting local wildlife, particularly pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which are attracted to its vibrant flowers. This makes it an important component of the Mediterranean ecosystem, contributing to biodiversity and environmental health.

In cultivation, Viola arborescens requires well-drained soil and a position that receives ample sunlight. It is relatively low maintenance, making it suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners. Its drought-resistant nature also means it can endure periods of limited water availability, although regular watering during prolonged dry spells can help ensure optimal growth and flowering.

In summary, the shrubby violet is a plant of noteworthy charm and resilience, embodying the beauty and ecological significance native to the Mediterranean flora. Its vibrant flowers and hardy nature make it a delightful addition to gardens and an important component of its native ecosystems.

Common Names

En: Shrubby Violet, Tree violet
Ca: Viola de tardor
Fr: Violette ligneuse, Violette sous-arbustive
It: Viola cespugliosa
Oc: Violeta lenhosa
Fa: بنفشه درختی
Pt: Violeta-de-Sagres
Es: Violeta arbórea

Synonyms

• Viola arborescens var. integrifolia (Ging.)
• Viola longiviola (Pourr. ex Schult.)
• Viola arborescens f. latifolia ((DC.) Fern.Casado)
• Viola tuberosa (Steud.)
• Viola arborescens var. elongata (Willk.)
• Viola arborescens f. integrifolia ((Ging.) Pau)
• Viola arborescens var. latifolia (Ging.)
• Viola arborescens f. albido-tomentosa (W.Becker)
• Viola arborescens f. willkommii (Fern.Casado)
• Viola arborescens var. compacta ((Willk.) Pau)
• Viola arborescens var. intermedia (Rouy & Foucaud)
• Viola saxicola (Schult.)
• Viola arborescens var. serratifolia (Ging.)
• Viola fruticans (Bubani)
• Viola suberosa (Desf.)

Distribution

• Algeria (native)
• Baleares (native)
• France (native)
• Morocco (native)
• Portugal (native)
• Sardegna (native)
• Spain (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Nov 13, 2021 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 3, 2022 by Helga Kautsch (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 26, 2020 by Javier Marimón (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 13, 2022 by Llandrich anna (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 4, 2021 by García Aaron (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Jan 5, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 5, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 5, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 5, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 3, 2021 by Llandrich anna (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Nov 1, 2019 by Albert Romero (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 17, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Ans GORTER (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 27, 2016 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 3, 2021 by Llandrich anna (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 3, 2021 by Llandrich anna (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Oct 25, 2022 by Sylvain Piry (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 25, 2022 by Sylvain Piry (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 13, 2022 by Llandrich anna (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken Oct 15, 2003 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)

Taken Oct 15, 2009 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Oct 15, 2003 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)

Taken Mar 10, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 31, 2020 by Renaud Brochiero (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Jan 5, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 10, 2015 by Tela Botanica − Ans GORTER (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 1, 2019 by Albert Romero (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 24, 2006 by jean marc hurot (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 19, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Marie PORTAS (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/7296290)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:867649-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Viola arborescens L.)

Specifications

Growth