About

A large, deciduous shrub to about 4m from eastern North America, closely related to V. dentatum, with broadly ovate, coarsely-toothed, mid-green leaves and broad, flat-topped clusters of white flowers in early summer, followed by small, dark blue-black berries. A robust, wildlife-friendly shrub for a sunny or partly shaded border.

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