English Violet (Viola Odorata)

Violets have been popular since ancient Greece and are still valued for their sweet fragrance and elegant blooms. There are many different cultivars of viola odorata, but many gardeners and florists favour the deep purple hue of the violet.

Features:

The English violet usually only reaches 6-8 inches in height but can spread up to 12 inches.

Planting Time:

Violets can be planted in the spring or fall and should be placed 8 inches apart with the plant crowns kept just above soil level. The violet is a self-seeder.

Flowering Time:

The violet will flower from late winter into early spring.

Growing Conditions:

The violet needs shade or light speckled sunshine. Plant in well-drained, moisture-retaining soil that is enriched with organic matter. Apply complete plant food after flowering stops. Get rid of snails and slugs, which can damage the violet, by picking them off by hand or applying a chemical treatment.

After Flowering:

Remove excess runners during the growing season if necessary. For flower arrangements, scald the stems of the cut violets before arranging them.

Climate Zone:

Zone 6-7