About
A medium-sized, deciduous shrub to about 2m tall from Japan and Korea with broadly ovate, bright green, prominently veined, toothed leaves turning red and orange in autumn, and flat-topped clusters of white flowers in late spring, followed by persistent, glossy, bright red berries. A handsome, multi-season ornamental for a mixed shrub border 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
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitMatforming
FoliageEvergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesWildlife gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow
Native toEurope
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationExcellent for wild or woodland garden. Grow in moist but well-drained soil
PruningDeadhead to prolong flowering
PropagationPropagate by seed or division
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs, snails, glasshouse red spider mite and violet gall midge
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to pansy leaf spot and powdery mildews