💜 When I moved into Leaf Retreat I was blessed with lovely patches of Viola reichenbachiana and Viola riviniana, both belonging to the Violaceae family. The low-growing perennials blossom from March to April turning the ground into a delicate lilac carpet year on year. Commonly known as early dog violet (viola reichenbachiana) and common dog violet (Viola riviniana) they are both quite similar in appearance. The key identifier lies in the spur of the flower! Viola riviniana has a paler coloured spur (as well as flowering a little later) while reichenbachiana has a purple spur as in the picture below (the spur is the part to the left).

 💜 While they are both are considered inferior to the fragrant and medicinal Viola odorata, the heart-shaped leaves provide a home for the fritillary butterfly on which to lay her eggs.

💜 Last year I added some Viola odorata plants to my small patch of…

🌱Hello everyone! It is that magical time of year again when wild garlic season begins. If you are a beginner forgager it is the perfect place start as it is easy to spot and very versatile in the kitchen! 🌱To get your natural culinary adventures started, I've created four recipe cards to get your started 🌱

Let me know how you get on, and enjoy your adventures 🌱

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

2. Habitat