About
A scrambling, herbaceous perennial to about 1m from Asia with pinnate leaves with a single pair (unijuga) of leaflets and clusters of small, purple, pea-like flowers followed by oblong seed pods. A delicate and unusual vetch for a sunny or partly shaded border, best supported by surrounding plants or a low framework.
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
Plant details
Suggested usesWoodland gardens, naturalised areas, ground cover
Care notes
CultivationMoist, humus-rich soil in dappled shade. Tolerates dry shade once established
PruningAllow to naturalise. Cut back after seeding if desired
PropagationSelf-seeds readily. Divide clumps in autumn
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free