All about Violet – History, Meaning, Facts, Care & More

The flowers of Violet are popular not only because it is the state symbol of, not just one but, three states in the US, Illinois, Rhode Island, and New Jersey. This springtime flowering plant has approximately 400 to 500 species today. The bloom has a unique heart-shape leaf and asymmetrical flowers or five petals with a spur on the end of the petals. The shape of the flower usually defines its species.

Although the flower is named Violet, it is available in a variety of colors like blue, yellow, cream, and white. Some Violets are also bicolored and most of them are blue or yellow, and of course, violet or purple. Violets are perennial plants but there are annuals and small shrubs, too. The flower contains both female or pistil, and male or stamen reproductive organs in one bloom. It means that this plant is capable of self-pollination. This flower also has fruit and it is called a capsule. When the capsule explodes, a nutlike seed will come out.

• History of Violet

Originally, the flowers of Violet were known ever since the ancient Greek time or around 500 B.C. Greeks and Romans believed that this flower was useful as herbal remedies from different illnesses and sicknesses. The flowers were also used to create wine and to sweeten their dishes for the festivals. Cultivation of this flower started around that time, as well.

The flowers are native to Northern Hemisphere and in some parts of Australia, Andes, Hawaii, and South America. The flowers are mostly found in the shaded grounds and hedgerows, specifically in areas where deciduous trees provide shades and protect the plants. These flowers were more than ornamental and flowering plants to the ancient times. The blooms were used for a wide range of purposes, too.

In 1814, Napoleon Bonaparte covered the grave of his wife Josephine with the flowers of Violet. He also declared Violets as his signature flower. Because of this, he was called as Corporal Violet.

• Meaning of Violet

According to our flower delivery service expert, when it comes to symbolism, this flower is symbolic of delicate love and affection, as well as faith, modesty, nobility, dignity, and intuition. The meaning may vary depending on colors and flower arrangements. Blue Violet is meant for faithfulness and love while yellow means goodness and worthiness. White violets represent chastity and purity.

• Facts About Violet

Violet flowers are classified as viola, together with the Bedding violas, Pansies, Viola odorata, and more. Hybridized Violets are also popular throughout the world. There are 400 to 500 types of Violets included in the genus Viola. Aside from native and true Violets, cultivated and hybridized violets are also available, giving the world a plethora of varieties that can grow in the garden.

Violets are known to have some nutritional values. Since ancient times, people use this flower in different recipes and savory dishes. The edible flower contains rich Vitamin C, antioxidants, and other nutrients that can help improve the immune system. The elusive smell of the Violet flower is different because one sniff is enough to desensitize the nose. This is because of the ionone chemical that the scent contains. Moreover, this scent is also used in oils, lotion, and perfume. In the field of medicine, this flower, as well as its legs and leaves were used for the treatment of congestion and sore throat. The leaves and flowers are also effective to relieve stomach cramps. Water from boiled roots is also helpful in removing excess water from the body.

There is much abundance of Violets in Illinois, which explains why the image of the flower is the symbol of the state. The most common and recognizable variety of Violet in Illinois is the Dooryard Violet. This variety makes Violet flowers very unusual than other flowers. It can produce two different flowers in one bloom. The first flower is seen in springtime as it blooms in large flowers. After the blooming stage in the spring season, the bloom will close and become like buds. Both types provide such a lovely sight to see, thus Violet is the longest blooming flower in Illinois.

Violets are the type of flowering plant that can adapt to any environment. It can be found in different habitats having different climates. They can thrive in the woodlands, marshes, and deserts. On the other hand, Violets are very different from African Violets because the African Violets are not from the Viola genus and they prefer humid surroundings and warmer climate.

• Violet Care

Growing Violets at home and caring for it is never a problem. The plant loves the shaded areas where spring sunshine is accessible and a full winter climate is experienced. For best results, the soil should be well-drained and improved with compost and fertilizers before planting. The best time to plant is in summer or early spring or at least four to six weeks before frost period.

During the growing stage, moderate watering is essential but not too much water. This type of plant naturally loves the cool temperature but it can get weak and unhealthy if improperly watered. During sunny weather, frequent watering will help the plant to tolerate the weather, and during the rainy season, well-drained soil will prevent root rotting. On snowy weather, adding mulch to the soil and to the ground surrounding the plant will protect the root from freezing.

Fertilizing and pruning will encourage the plant to bloom abundantly. Potted plants may need repotting or plant division, especially if the root outgrew the pot. However, Violets are not ideal to be grown and cared for indoors.