About
A deciduous perennial, to around 20cm high, with large, broadly oval to heart-shaped green leaves with dark purple veins. Pale lavender flowers are produced in spring, amongst and sometimes before the leaves.
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, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy, Clump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden
Care notes
CultivationGrow in fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil; thrives in part shade, but will tolerate a range of planting positions
PruningDeadhead to prolong flowering unless seed is required
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in late winter or early spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs, snails, aphids, glasshouse red spider mite, violet gall midge
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to pansy leaf spot, powdery mildews, a rust and virus diseases