China violet (Viola patrinii)

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

Viola patrinii is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in). It is in flower from May to June, and the seeds ripen from July to September. 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. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Young leaves and flower buds - raw or cooked. When added to soup they thicken it in much the same way as okra. A tea can be made from the leaves. — Young leaves and flower buds - raw or cooked.; When added to soup they thicken it in much the same way as okra.; A tea can be made from the leaves.

Habitat & North American Range

Usually found under forest shade, 1900 - 2700 metres in the Himalayas. Marshy meadows, meadows, moist places along riversides, thickets, moist and shaded places at forest margins. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)