Wholesale Violet Leaf

01.
Violet: A Bit of Botany

a bit of botanical information on violet

Viola odorata is a low-growing, herbaceous perennial of the Violaceae family, typically reaching 10–15 cm (4–6 in) in height. It spreads by short, creeping rhizomes, forming dense mats of vegetation. The leaves are basal, cordate (heart-shaped), and range from 3–8 cm (1.2–3.1 in) in length, with finely serrated margins and a smooth to slightly hairy surface. The plant produces fragrant, zygomorphic flowers in early spring, typically violet-purple in color but occasionally white; flowers measure 1.5–2 cm (0.6–0.8 in) across and have five unequal petals, with the lower petal often spurred.

Violet prefers moist, shaded habitats and is commonly found in forest understories, hedgerows, and gardens across temperate regions. It reproduces both vegetatively through rhizomes and sexually. The leaves are rich in mucilage, salicylates, and vitamins A and C, and are traditionally harvested for their gentle lymphatic, anti-inflammatory, and skin-supportive properties.

COMMON NAMES & NOMENCLATURE

The name "violet" comes from the Latin word viola, which was used by the Romans to refer to the violet plant and its flowers. This, in turn, is thought to derive from the ancient Greek word ion (ἴον), also meaning violet.

ALSO KNOWN AS

• Sweet violet
• English violet
• Garden violet

02.
Violet: Where in the World

habitat and range for violet

Viola species typically thrive in moist, shaded environments such as woodland edges, hedgerows, meadows, and gardens. Plants in the genus Viola are believed to have originated in the Northern Hemisphere, with a strong center of diversity in temperate regions of Europe, Asia, and North America.

03.
Violet: Cultivation

considerations for growing and harvesting violet

• Climate - Viola prefers cool, temperate climates with partial to full shade. It thrives in moist environments and is often found growing naturally in forest understories and along hedgerows.
• Soil - Violet grows best in rich, loamy, well-drained soil with consistent moisture.
• Growing - Seeds can be sown directly in fall or spring but often benefit from cold stratification. Plants may also be propagated by division in early spring or autumn. Once established, violet spreads by rhizomes and can form dense groundcover over time. It requires little maintenance and can naturalize easily in favorable conditions.
• Harvesting - Leaves are best harvested in spring or early summer when they are vibrant and tender. They should be picked before the plant begins to flower for optimal potency. Fresh leaves can be used directly or dried in a single layer in a well-ventilated, shaded area.
• Preserving - Store dried violet leaves in an airtight container, away from heat and light. For oil infusions, use fully dried plant material to avoid spoilage.

04.
Violet: The Rest of the Story

Violet history, folklore, literature & more

Violet has a long and meaningful presence in herbal traditions, folklore, and even poetry. Revered since ancient times, violets have symbolized love, modesty, and protection, and their fragrant flowers were often woven into garlands or scattered along paths in early spring celebrations.

While commonly admired for its beauty, the violet plant holds powerful medicinal value. Traditionally used to soothe the skin, support the lymphatic system, and ease respiratory complaints, violet leaf is more than a pretty plant. Its gentle yet effective actions have made it a trusted remedy in folk medicine for centuries.