Viola langsdorffii facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Viola langsdorffii |
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Viola (plant)
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langsdorffii
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The Alaskan violet, also known as the Aleutian violet, is a type of plant called Viola. Its scientific name is Viola langsdorffii. This plant grows from strong roots that spread out. Its stems grow upwards, reaching about 5 to 30 centimeters tall.
Viola langsdorffii has leaves with long stems. The leaves are round and heart-shaped, about 2.5 to 4 centimeters wide. Their edges are gently rounded. The small leaf-like parts at the base of the leaf stems, called stipules, are shaped like spears. The lower ones often have cuts in them.
The flowers of the Alaskan violet are a light purple color. Their petals are usually 12 to 16 millimeters long. The three bottom petals are white at their base. The two side petals have tiny hairs. The short, thick part at the back of the flower, called the spur, is about as wide as it is long. The top part of the flower's style (which holds pollen) does not have hairs. Violets found in Alaska and the Aleutian Islands are often bigger, with petals up to 20 millimeters long.
Where the Alaskan Violet Grows
The Alaskan violet, Viola langsdorffii, usually grows near the coast. You can find it in cool, moist areas from the Aleutian Islands all the way down to central Oregon. In Oregon, it can grow a bit further inland, reaching Marion County.
This violet prefers to grow in wet places. It can be found from low lands up to high mountain areas. Its favorite spots include:
- Wetlands called bogs
- Damp meadows
- Banks of streams
- Areas where snow has recently melted
