Native violas

There are several California native violas worth growing. Most notable is the Western Dog Violet (Viola adunca). Hardy and pretty, with good-size rich, purple flowers, it makes a low, densely matting ground cover to 1 foot across. It is a valuable pollinator plant, being a host for the threatened Oregon silverspot butterfly. As with every species of viola, it does best in rich, well-drained soil; once it is established it will tolerate some dryness. Although a bit harder to find, the California coastal Viola pedunculata offers yellow flowers and a delicate fragrance.

Cultivation:

Most species violas will want a filtered sun or bright shade location. Most are adaptable to a variety of soils but prefer neutral, fertile, well-drained soil. They spread by rhizomes and occasionally selfseeding.

Pests and diseases:

Tough and resilient, these species violas are not usually bothered by the blight or powdery mildew that beset the common hybrids.

Look for any or all of the perennial violas in your local nursery. Many can also be found or ordered at www.anniesannuals.com.

Availability:

Viola adunca, a.k.a. the Western Dog Violet, makes a low, dense ground cover.