Violets are beautiful and versatile flowers that grow well in the wild. They have been associated with as love, faith, and chastity, and they are also the flower of the month of February. There are a lot of things about violets that most people would be surprised to learn. This little flower hides many wonders beneath the heart-shaped petals! February, in addition to being the month of violets, is also the month of love and creativity. So let's delve into the world of this herbaceous little flower and see what secrets violets have to tell us!
Violets Are Not Always Violet
Despite the name, violets actually come in many different colors. While the purple and blue ones tend to steal the spotlight, they also come in yellow, white, and orange, and many of them have a second color in the middle. What unites all of these flowers is family: All violet species are from the family Violaceae.
African Violets Are Not Violets
Saintpaulia, the plant commonly known as African violet, is from the family Gesneriaceae. This means it is not actually a violet, but it looks very similar. Since violets do not grow very well indoors, saintpaulia is often used instead. Pansies, however, are a type of violet, as are between 525 and 600 other species.
The Meaning Behind Violets
Traditionally, violets have symbolized modesty in floriography, reflecting their low-growing nature and bashful appearance. This modest demeanor is just the beginning of their rich symbolism.
In contemporary contexts, violets are known to signify strength, gracefulness, leadership, and even royalty. These qualities make them a fitting emblem for those born in February, who often exhibit great courage and determination.
Beyond these attributes, violets also represent delicate love, particularly holding importance within the LGBTQ+ community as a symbol of female love, drawing on their use in works by the Greek poet Sappho. Their simple yet striking purple petals convey a message of profound affection and connection.
Spiritually, violets carry meanings that can inspire imagination and dreams. For those who feel a connection to the spiritual realm, these flowers may enhance your abilities and offer enlightenment, guiding you toward a more insightful future.
Are Violets Edible?
Violets are a delightful addition to the culinary world. These vibrant flowers can transform ordinary dishes into visual masterpieces.
- Cakes and Cocktails: Violet petals, with their vivid colors, make stunning decorations atop cakes and cocktails.
- Teas and Syrups: When mixed into teas or syrups, they provide not only a hint of sweetness but also antioxidant benefits.
It's essential, however, to ensure that any violets consumed are specifically grown for human consumption to avoid any harmful effects.
Medicinal Uses of Violet Flowers
Since they grow prolifically in temperate zones, violets have been collected for a variety of uses since the ancient Greeks. Violets have been eaten, fermented, and used in medicine, in addition to being worn or used to decorate. Since they are rich in vitamins and have soothing anti-inflammatory properties when applied to the skin, herbalists throughout history have used them to nourish and heal. Violets are not only a natural source of Vitamin C but also serve as effective antioxidants.
- Immune System Boost: Violets can enhance your immune system, helping your body fend off illnesses more effectively.
- Blood Cleansing: These flowers are known for their ability to cleanse the blood, promoting better overall health.
- Respiratory Relief: They can assist with congestion, easing the discomfort of colds and allergies.
- Digestive Aid: Violets may soothe stomach cramps, offering relief from digestive issues.
- Throat Soothing: Their properties can help alleviate sore throats, making them a go-to in herbal remedies.
For practical use, violets can be incorporated into teas or syrups. However, it's important to consult a medical professional before trying violets as a home remedy to make sure that you’re using them safely.
Myths and Legends of Violets
Violets hold a storied place in ancient folklore, woven deeply into the myths of Greece and Rome. These delicate blooms were more than just ornamental; they played a significant role in cultural rituals and legends.
- Greek Mythology: Violets are said to have flourished from the enchanted music of Orpheus, a legendary figure known for his magical ability to charm all living things. In another tale, the goddess Cybele caused violets to sprout where her son's blood fell, marking them as symbols of love and mourning.
- Roman Traditions: The Romans cherished violets for their versatility, using them in everything from fine wines to sweet festival dishes, showcasing the flower's culinary significance.
- Valentine's Day Connection: Before roses became synonymous with romance, violets were the flower of Valentine’s Day. Lore suggests that St. Valentine himself used violet-infused ink to pen heartfelt messages while imprisoned, capturing the flower's essence of love and devotion.
Where to Find Violets
Violets can be grown in any temperate zone, but this huge family has a wide array of personalities. Some violets grow well in cool climates, while others need a little warmth to thrive. Some species of violets thrive in damp areas, while others crave loose soil and still others hide underground. They all seem to prefer shade and moderate temperatures, but each species has different needs.
The Wild Violet
Violets can be found all over the United States, and a few species can be found in Europe. They bloom from spring to early summer in well-saturated or freely draining soil, but in the right conditions, they can last as long as early fall. They spread almost invasively, but they only last for the season of their blooming.
Gardening With Violets
Although violets are wildflowers, they can still be cultivated and tamed for your garden. This is a relatively simple matter of keeping them from spreading and watching out for natural predators that consume parts of the plant. Most violets want to be in the moist, shady part of your garden, but they can also be nurtured in containers.
Decorating With Violets
Our favorite place to admire violets is in the comfort of our own homes or offices. Violets have the ability to be comforting and uplifting in any environment in any season! Planted and potted in a ceramic pot or wooden planter, these little plants bring a real sense of style and personality into any room. Whether planted alone or accompanied by complimenting green foliage, violets' vibrant colored petals and textures radiate positivity in any room, making them the perfect addition to any decor! Whether you are placing your new violet planter on your kitchen counter, on your desk in your office, or maybe on the end table in your living room, it is sure to be adored and recognized by all who see.
Four US states — Wisconsin, Rhode Island, Illinois, and New Jersey — claim violets as their state flower, and with so many ways violets can enhance one's life, it is no wonder. Whether they’re thrown into a salad, mixed into a soothing balm, or simply grown to enjoy their beauty, violets add much to our lives, whether we realize it or not. With so many species of violets to choose from, you are sure to find some that will bring their essence into your home or garden!
