About
A low-growing, semi-evergreen perennial to about 15cm, forming a loose mat of dark green, heart-shaped leaves. Produces purple flowers with darker spurs from early to late 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
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitMatforming
FoliageSemi evergreen
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
Care notes
CultivationGrow in fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade
PruningDeadhead to prolong flowering. After flowering cut back vigorous plants to keep compact
PropagationPropagate by seed, or by division in spring or autumn
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs, snails, glasshouse red spider mite and violet gall midge
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews, pansy downy mildew, pansy leaf spot, a virus and a rust