Variegated Chinese Violet

For gardening purposes the continental United States is divided into 10 different “Hardiness Zones” which represents the average annual minimum temperatures for each region. This is what gardeners use to determine which plants are likely to thrive in their area based upon the temperatures each plant prefers. Here in South Florida we are in zone 10 where our average annual minimum temperature may reach 30 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Variegated Chinese Violet is an attractive edible herb that is appropriate for planting in zone 10. This plant tolerates the high temperatures of the scorching summer months here in West Palm Beach where as a perennial it thrives year round. In colder regions this herb can be planted as an annual. Also known as Creeping Foxglove, its’ beautiful violet and white flowers will bloom in all four seasons attracting bees, butterflies and birds. The variegated variety is decorated with two toned leaves of green and yellow.

Traditionally, this herb has been used for:

• Asthma
• Rheumatism
• Viruses
• Skin allergies
• Diabetes
• Easing pain during childbirth