Water violet Hottonia palustris
ABOUT
The plant known as Water violet is a freshwater perennial that is well-recognized for its delicate and feathery submerged leaves, which provide an intricate texture under the water's surface. The submerged leaves are divided in a pinnate fashion, resembling soft green feathers. Above the water, the plant produces distinctly different leaves that are broader and float on the surface, often forming rosettes. In the flowering season, the Water violet produces attractive spikes of violet-colored flowers, which stand above the water level. These flowers are arranged in a whorl around the stem, each with a tubular structure that has a five-lobed corolla, adding a splash of soft purple hue against the green backdrop. The plant exudes a gracefulness in the aquatic environment and is a favored choice for ornamental water gardens and ponds.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Primulaceae.
Synonyms
Water Violet, Featherfoil, Water Featherfoil.
Common names
Athamanta palustris, Hottonia balearica, Hottonia inflata, Hottonia linoides, Hottonia palustris var. repens, Hottonia repens, Primula palustris.
ToxicityTo humans
Hottonia palustris, commonly known as water violet, does not have a widespread reputation as a toxic plant to humans. There is limited information available regarding its toxicity, and it is not typically listed among plants known for having significant poisonous properties affecting humans. Consequently, no specific symptoms of poisoning or tangible consequences of ingesting any part of this plant are well-documented. As with any plant, allergic reactions or personal sensitivity could potentially occur, but general toxicity is not a prominent concern with water violet.
To pets
Similar to its profile for humans, water violet, the common name for Hottonia palustris, is not generally classified as a toxic plant to pets. There is scant evidence or reports that would suggest significant toxicity to domestic animals such as dogs or cats. As a result, there are no well-known symptoms of poisoning or specific negative consequences of pets ingesting this plant. Nonetheless, it is advisable to monitor pets and prevent them from consuming plants not intended for their consumption, as individual reactions can vary, and some pets might have sensitivities or allergies.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Water Quality Improvement: Hottonia palustris, commonly known as water violet, aids in maintaining clean and clear water in ponds and aquatic environments by absorbing excess nutrients and reducing algae growth.
- Wildlife Habitat: The water violet provides habitat and breeding grounds for aquatic insects, amphibians, and small fish, enhancing biodiversity.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its delicate, feathery underwater foliage and attractive purple flowers, water violet adds visual interest and natural beauty to water gardens and ponds.
- Oxygenation: Water violet contributes to the oxygenation of the water, which is essential for the health of fish and other aquatic organisms.
- Erosion Control: The root system of water violet helps stabilize pond banks and substrates, preventing erosion and maintaining the integrity of the water body's edge.
- Natural Filtration: The plant acts as a natural filter, trapping sediments and particulates, which helps in maintaining the clarity and quality of the water.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Hottonia palustris, commonly known as Water Violet, can be used as a calming aesthetic addition to water gardens, providing visual appeal with its feather-like foliage and violet flowers.
- The plant serves as an excellent habitat for aquatic fauna, offering shelter and breeding grounds for small fish and amphibians.
- Water Violet's dense growth can provide a natural form of erosion control along the banks of ponds and waterways, helping to stabilize the soil.
- It can be used in biotope aquariums to replicate natural aquatic environments and maintain ecological balance.
- The plant can be a food source for waterfowl and other bird species that feed on aquatic vegetation.
- In decorative dried flower arrangements, the seed heads of Water Violet can add unique texture and interest.
- Hottonia palustris can be a natural indicator of water quality, as it thrives in clean, non-polluted waters.
- Enthusiasts of miniature pond ecosystems can use Water Violet to create scaled-down versions of natural wetland habitats.
- Its presence can help increase oxygen levels in the water, benefiting other aquatic plants and animals.
- Water Violet can serve as an educational tool in schools to teach students about wetland ecosystems and plant life cycles.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Water Violet is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Water Violet is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rarity and uniqueness: Hottonia palustris, commonly known as water violet, is relatively rare in the wild, which can symbolize something precious and unique.
- Delicacy: With its delicate flowers and feathery underwater foliage, the water violet can represent fragility and the need for a gentle approach in life.
- Adaptability: As an aquatic plant that can thrive in water and damp conditions, it stands for the ability to adapt to various environments and situations.
- Solitude: Often found growing alone, it may symbolize a comfortable solitude or the joy in peaceful isolation.
- Purity: The water violet grows in clear water, which can be associated with cleanliness, purity, and the washing away of impurities.
WaterWater Featherfoil thoroughly to ensure the substrate is moist, as it thrives in wet conditions; excess water should be allowed to drain off. Immerse the pot in a tub of water, allowing the soil to absorb moisture from the bottom-up, once or twice a week, and more frequently during hot dry spells. For potted plants, it's crucial not to leave them sitting in water; instead, let the pot drain completely after each watering. In terms of the amount, water with approximately two to four gallons every month, adjusting based on the plant's response and environmental conditions.
LightFeatherfoil prefers bright, indirect sunlight or partial shade and should not be exposed to prolonged, intense midday sun. The best spot for this plant would ideally receive dappled sunlight throughout the day, such as close to a north or east-facing window, or in an outdoor setting with filtered sunlight.
TemperatureFeatherfoil thrives best in temperate conditions and can tolerate a temperature range from about 50°F to 77°F. It should not be exposed to temperatures below 32°F, as the freezing point could cause substantial damage to the plant. The ideal temperature for healthy growth would be in the range of 60°F to 70°F.
PruningPrune Featherfoil to remove dead or yellowing leaves and promote bushier growth. It is best done in the spring before the new growth begins. Cut back any overgrown stems to maintain the desired shape, and remove flowering stems after they fade to encourage further blooming throughout the season. Pruning may be necessary every few months to keep the plant looking its best.
CleaningAs needed
SoilWater Violet prefers a soil mixture high in organic matter with good water retention. A mix of peat or sphagnum moss with sand and loam can provide the right balance. The pH for Water Violet soil should ideally fall between 6.0 and 7.5 to mimic its natural boggy habitat.
RepottingWater Violet (Hottonia palustris) rarely needs repotting as it grows in water. Instead of typical repotting, refresh the medium in its aquatic environment every few years or as needed when the water becomes depleted of nutrients.
Humidity & MistingWater Violet thrives in humid environments, as it is an aquatic plant typically found in wetlands. The best humidity condition for this plant is high humidity, similar to that of its native marshy and pond habitats.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep submerged in water, under good lighting.
Outdoor
Plant in shallow water or boggy soil, full sun.
Hardiness zone
5-11 USDA
Life cycleHottonia palustris, commonly known as water violet, starts its life cycle as a seed, germinating in the spring in aquatic or semi-aquatic environments. The seedlings develop into submerged plants with feather-like leaves, adapted to underwater growth. As the plant matures, it produces stems that reach toward the water surface, ending in whorls of leaves and spikes of small, violet flowers that emerge above the water in late spring or early summer. After pollination, often by insects such as bees, the flowers produce small capsules containing seeds. These seeds drop to the aquatic substrate or are carried to new locations by water currents, ensuring the propagation of the species. In autumn, the plant enters a period of dormancy, with the aerial parts dying back, while the roots and base of the stems survive the winter to regrow the following year.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
Water Violet, scientifically known as Hottonia palustris, is a beautiful aquatic plant that is often propagated by division, which is the most popular method of propagation for this species. This process involves gently separating the clumps or sections of the plant, ensuring that each new piece has its own roots and foliage. The best time for dividing Water Violet is during the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate by division, carefully remove the plant from the water, and use your fingers or a sharp knife to divide the root system into several sections. Each section should have at least one growing point or shoot. These new plants can then be replanted individually into the substrate or in pots, maintaining a depth of about 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 centimeters) underwater to ensure proper growth. Within a few weeks, the newly planted divisions should start producing fresh growth and will eventually mature into individual plants.
