About
A low-growing, spreading perennial to 10cm high with evergreen, purple-tinged, heart-shaped leaves to 2.5cm across. Small, lavender-blue flowers are borne on short stems in spring.
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
SunlightFull shade, Full sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, North-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitMatforming
FoliageEvergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Rock garden, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moist but well-drained soil; well-suited to woodland, banks or wild gardens where it spreads by self-seeding and creeping stems
PruningNo pruning required. Deadhead to prolong flowering
PropagationPropagate by seed
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs, snails and violet gall midge
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to pansy leaf spot and powdery mildews