Viola tricolor subsp. tricolor — Clump forming

Overview

Viola tricolor subsp. tricolor is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Viola, part of the Violaceae family, with evergreen, semi evergreen foliage. Viola tricolor subsp. tricolor grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, patio and container plants, city and courtyard gardens, flower borders and beds and underplanting of roses and shrubs.

About

Viola tricolor subsp. tricolor is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial belonging to the Viola genus, known for its diverse growth forms and distinctive five-petalled flowers. This cultivar features evergreen to semi-evergreen foliage and thrives in full sun to partial shade, favouring south, west, or east-facing aspects. It grows well in a variety of soil types, including chalk, clay, loam, and sand, with a preference for moist but well-drained conditions. Hardy to UK zone H5, it is suitable for cottage gardens, patios, city gardens, flower borders, and underplanting. It is best propagated by seed sown in late winter or early spring and is mainly of interest in spring.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Viola

Sunlight: Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type: Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH: Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained
Aspect: South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
Exposure: Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Viola tricolor subsp. tricolor size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Herbaceous Perennial
Habit: Clump forming
Foliage: Evergreen, Semi evergreen
Suggested uses: Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, City and courtyard gardens, Flower borders and beds, Underplanting of roses and shrubs

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Viola tricolor subsp. tricolor

Propagation: Seed sown in late winter or early spring
Pest resistance: Slugs, Snails, Aphids, Glasshouse red spider mite, Violet gall midge
Disease resistance: Powdery mildews, Pansy leaf spot, A virus, A rust

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Viola tricolor subsp. tricolor?

Viola tricolor subsp. tricolor prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Viola tricolor subsp. tricolor need?

Viola tricolor subsp. tricolor is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

Is Viola tricolor subsp. tricolor hardy in the UK?

Viola tricolor subsp. tricolor has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.

How do I propagate Viola tricolor subsp. tricolor?

Seed sown in late winter or early spring.

More in the Viola genus

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