Canada Violet (Viola canadensis)

Family: Violaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Viola canadensis is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.4 m (1ft 4in) by 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower from April to July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

mild flavour, when boiled as greens they are best mixed with other stronger tasting leaves. — Young leaves and flower buds - raw or cooked.; A very mild flavour, when boiled as greens they are best mixed with other stronger tasting leaves.; When added to soup they thicken it in much the same way as okra.; The leaves are a good tea substitute.

Habitat & North American Range

Rich soils in deciduous woods and forests in the mountains. (Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)