About
A species of rhizomatous, moisture-loving perennial with dark green, heart-shaped leaves and small, violet-purple flowers which appear from April to July.
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 typeClay, Chalk
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisturePoorly-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
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 usesBedding displays, containers, gap filling.
Care notes
CultivationGrow in fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade
PruningDeadhead regularly to prolong flowering
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in late winter or early spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs, snails, aphids, glasshouse red spider mite and violet gall midge
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews, pansy leaf spot, pansy downy mildew, a virus and a rust