About
A large, vigorous hybrid between V. rhytidophyllum and V. lantana, inheriting the leathery, wrinkled foliage of the former and greater hardiness from the latter. A large, semi-evergreen to deciduous shrub with domed clusters of creamy-white flowers in spring and red berries ripening to black. A dependable, robust shrub for a mixed or woodland 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
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral, Acid
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitTrailing, Matforming
FoliageSemi evergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants, City and courtyard gardens, Hanging basket
Native toAustralia
Care notes
CultivationBest grown in a cool greenhouse, or alpine house. Otherwise grow in fertile, humus-rich, reliably moist but not waterlogged soil in full sun or partial shade
PruningDeadhead to prolong flowering. After flowering cut back vigorous plants to keep compact
PropagationPropagate by seed or by division in spring or autumn
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs, snails, glasshouse red spider mite and violet gall midge
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews, pansy downy mildew, pansy leaf spot, a virus and a rust