Overview
Viola odorata 'Alba' is a herbaceous perennial in the genus Viola, part of the Violaceae family. It typically grows around 0.1 m tall. Viola odorata 'Alba' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include groundcover, borders and rock gardens. It is native to Europe and Asia.
About
Viola odorata is a species of flowering plant in the family Violaceae. The small hardy herbaceous perennial is commonly known as wood violet, sweet violet, English violet, common violet, florist's violet, or garden violet.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Viola odorata
About the genus
Viola, commonly known as the violets, is a genus of flowering plants in the family Violaceae. It is the largest genus in the family, containing over 680 species. Most species are found in the temperate Northern Hemisphere; however, some are also found in widely divergent areas such as Hawaii, Australasia, and the Andes.
Wikipedia contributors, "Viola (plant)", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Viola (plant)
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Viola
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Exposure
- Partial shade
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Viola odorata 'Alba' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous perennial
- Height
- 0.1 m
- Suggested uses
- Groundcover, borders, rock gardens
- Native to
- Europe and Asia
- Fragrance
- Sweet, violet scent
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Viola odorata 'Alba'
- Cultivation
- Prefers moist, well-drained soil; avoid waterlogging; mulch in winter
- Pruning
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage blooming; trim after flowering to maintain shape
- Propagation
- Division, seed, cuttings
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Viola odorata 'Alba'?
Prefers moist, well-drained soil; avoid waterlogging; mulch in winter.
Where is the best place to plant Viola odorata 'Alba'?
Viola odorata 'Alba' prefers full sun. It suits partial shade positions.
What soil does Viola odorata 'Alba' need?
Viola odorata 'Alba' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Viola odorata 'Alba'?
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage blooming; trim after flowering to maintain shape.
How big does Viola odorata 'Alba' grow?
Viola odorata 'Alba' reaches a height of 0.1 m.
Is Viola odorata 'Alba' hardy in the UK?
Viola odorata 'Alba' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Viola odorata 'Alba'?
Division, seed, cuttings.
More in the Viola genus
- Viola 'Panola Rose Picotee' (Panola Series)
- Viola 'Pearl Rose'
- Viola eizorensis
- Viola hastatahalberd-leaved violet
- Viola hispidaRouen pansy
- Viola rugulosaViolet
- Viola sororia 'Freckles'Common Blue Violet
- Viola verecunda var. yakusimana
