Viola obtusa
Viola obtusafam. Violaceae
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Pl. 5ACD — Viola obtusa
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IOverview
Overview
Viola obtusa, known as Skip in English and belonging to the Violaceae family, is a perennial plant native to Japan, Korea, and Taiwan. This small, flowering plant thrives in moist conditions and prefers light or partial sun exposure. With a height of only 0.1 meters, it can be found growing in various soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). Both its edible leaves and flowers are used for culinary purposes. Additionally, V. obtusa has a history of medicinal use, making it a versatile plant with both ornamental and practical applications in different settings.
Quick answers
What is Viola obtusa?
Viola obtusa, known as Skip in English and belonging to the Violaceae family, is a perennial plant native to Japan, Korea, and Taiwan. This small, flowering plant thrives in moist conditions and prefers light or partial sun exposure. With a height of only 0.
IV·bMixology suggestions
2 drafts
Mixology suggestions
2 draftsEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Stress Relief
stresstincture
Historically used for calming the mind.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Viola obtusa thrives in partial sun to full sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This perennial grows up to 0.1 meters tall and can be propagated through division. It is hardy in temperate regions and is native to Japan, Korea, and Taiwan. The edible parts include the flowers and leaves. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist for best growth.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.1 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Viola obtusa for the first time
8steps
Start with Skip by providing basic care and simple maintenance.
- 1
What you'll need
A small pot, quality soil, and a sunny spot in your garden.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Skip in early spring or late summer for best results.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with some sand mixed in. Ensure the pot has drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young Skip plants from a nursery or sow seeds directly into the soil, spacing them about 15 cm apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid direct sunlight during this period.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide partial shade and regular watering. Fertilize lightly once a month with compost.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves to encourage new growth and remove spent flowers to promote more blooms.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, too much direct sunlight, neglecting to prune, using poor soil, and not providing enough shade.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersLeaves
Edible uses: Tea
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
3 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
3 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 3 native
Asia3 regions
native (3)JapanSouth KoreaTaiwan
XSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Violaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Violaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
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