Originating from the Indian Subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and northern and eastern Australia, the Chinese Violet, thrives across a broad spectrum of environments, ranging from sea-level to an altitude of 6,000 feet. This sprawling annual or subshrub is accustomed to a variety of habitats including roadsides, river banks, cultivated and waste areas, open woodlands, and forest margins. Its adaptability has also seen it become an invasive species in certain regions​. This robust perennial can flourish rapidly, being capable of flowering and seeding within just 45 days post germination​​ and can carpet a large area. Photographed in the department of Atlántico, Colombia.