Violet (Viola) is a genus of plants in the violet family (Violaceae). They are herbaceous plants that occur naturally throughout the world, mainly in the temperate zone of the northern hemisphere. Violets are popular for their beautiful flowers of various shapes and colors.
Violet Coloring Book
Information
- Flowers and appearance: Violets are characterized by five-petaled flowers, one petal of which is larger than the other four. Violets' flowers can come in a variety of colors, such as purple, blue, yellow, white, pink and multi-colored. Their appearance can range from simple to more intricate patterns on the petals.
- Leaves: The leaves of violets are heart-shaped or round, usually soft to the touch. A distinctive feature is the so-called "violet" on the leaf, which is a spot in a characteristic shape.
- Application: Violets are popular as ornamental plants in gardens, parks and on windowsills. They are often grown both in pots and in beds. In addition, some species of violets have applications in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries.
- Symbolism: The violet has different symbolic meanings in different cultures. In some traditions, it represents modesty, loyalty, and love. It is also often associated with youth and gentleness.
- Biennial and annual violet: Among violets, there are various species, including the biennial violet (Viola odorata), which is a well-known species with a distinctive, intense fragrance. The annual violet (Viola tricolor) is also a popular species, having colorful flowers with three prominent petals.
- Cultivation: Violets are relatively easy to grow. They require well-drained soil and moderate sun or partial shade. They are often propagated by dividing clumps or from seed.
- History: Violets have been cultivated and used by humans for centuries. In ancient Rome, they were used for medicinal purposes and as a bath aroma. In the Middle Ages, violets were prized for their medicinal and symbolic properties.
Trivia
- Violets in cosmetics: The essential oil extracted from the biennial violet (Viola odorata) has applications in the cosmetic industry. It is used in the production of perfumes and other cosmetics because of its delicate, sweet fragrance.
- Symbolism in literature: Violets often appear in literature and poetry as a symbol of various emotions and states of mind. They can represent love, modesty, longing or nostalgia. In William Shakespeare's "Hamlet," the character Ophelia says "Violets, violets, are flowers that wither with love."
- Violet in culinary: Some varieties of violets are edible and are used in cooking to decorate dishes. Flower petals can be added to salads, desserts or drinks as a garnish.
- Violets vs. St. Valentine: In some countries, violets were traditionally associated with St. Valentine's Day (February 14), which is the day of lovers. They were a symbol of love and devotion.
- Violets in folk medicine: In some cultures, violets have been used in folk medicine to treat various ailments, such as sore throats, coughs and skin problems. Modern medicine does not confirm all of these uses.
- Diversity of species: The violet (Viola) genus includes many species with different flower shapes and colors. Some of them have unusual patterns on their petals, creating interesting and unique looks.
- Violets vs. Queen Victoria: In the 19th century, violets were one of Queen Victoria's favorite flowers. During the period of mourning after the death of her husband Albert, they became a symbol of her longing and remembrance.
- Violets vs. the language of flowers: During the Victorian period, when the language of flowers (floristry) was popular, violets represented modesty and loyalty. There was also a subtle difference between blue violets (loyalty) and white violets (innocence).
- Violets in religion and mythology: In some mythologies, violets were associated with the goddess Aphrodite (Roman Venus), the goddess of love and beauty. In Christianity, violets were sometimes considered a symbol of humility and modesty.
- Violets vs. zodiac signs: In astrology, certain species of violets are sometimes associated with different zodiac signs. For example, the biennial violet is sometimes assigned to the signs of Cancer and Aquarius.