Marsh blue violet
Viola obliqua

Family: Violaceae

What it is like

A small plant. It grows 10-15 cm high and spreads 20-40 cm wide. The leaves are oval and pointed or kidney shaped. They have shallow teeth. The leaves are 8 cm wide. The flowers have spurs and 5 petals. The flowers are 30 mm wide and are white with some tints or purple.

There are about 500 Viola species.

Where it is found

It is a temperate plant. It grows on wet soils. It suits hardiness zones 4-9.

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia, Canada, North America, USA

How it is used for food

The tender young leaves, stems and flowers are added to tossed salads. They are also cooked as potherbs. The leaves can be used as thickeners for soup.

Edible parts

Flowers, leaves

How it is grown

Plants can be grown from sections of the rhizome or underground stem. It should be planted in wet soils.

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Viola cucullata Aiton; Viola obliqua Hill; Viola palmata var. cucullata (Aiton) A. Gray;