About
A genus of deciduous shrubs or small trees from East Asia with simple, ovate, toothed leaves and drooping racemes of small, usually fragrant, pale yellow, bell-shaped flowers in early spring before the leaves emerge. Very ornamental, early-flowering subjects for a sheltered, semi-shaded or open border in a cool, well-drained garden.
About the genus
Viola can be annuals, biennials or deciduous or evergreen perennials, with simple or pinnately lobed leaves and 5-petalled flowers of characteristic shape
Plant details
Suggested usesWoodland gardens, naturalised areas, ground cover
Care notes
CultivationMoist, humus-rich soil in dappled shade. Tolerates dry shade once established
PruningAllow to naturalise. Cut back after seeding if desired
PropagationSelf-seeds readily. Divide clumps in autumn
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free