Alphabetical Plant Listing

Violets (Viola): How to Grow and Care with Success

Sweet Violet, Viola odorata, Common Blue Violet, Viola sororia, Yellow Violet, Viola pubescens, Pansies, Viola × wittrockiana


What are Violets?

Violets are a group of flowering plants in the genus Viola, which belongs to the Violaceae family. There are around 500 to 600 species within the genus, found in various habitats across the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Violets are characterized by their heart-shaped or rounded leaves and their five-petaled flowers, which come in a wide range of colors, including purple, blue, yellow, white, and combinations thereof.

Growth habit: Violets are typically herbaceous perennials, although some species can be annuals or small shrubs. They generally form clumps or spread through creeping stems called stolons or rhizomes, depending on the species.

Size: Violets vary in size, with most species ranging from 2 to 12 inches (5-30 cm) in height. The width of the plants can also vary depending on the species and growth habits.

Flowers: Violet flowers usually have bilateral symmetry, featuring two upper petals, two lateral petals, and a lower petal that often has a nectar spur. The flowers can be single or appear in small clusters.

Blooming season: Violets typically bloom in spring, although some species can also flower in the summer or even early autumn.

Hardiness: The hardiness of violets varies depending on the species, with many being suitable for USDA hardiness zones 3-9.

Uses: Violets are often used in gardens as ornamental plants, adding color to borders, rock gardens, or woodland settings. Some species have edible flowers and leaves, which can be used in salads, desserts, and teas.

Violets have a long history of use in traditional medicine, with some species being used for their anti-inflammatory, expectorant, and diuretic properties. Additionally, many violet species are known to be fragrant and have been used in perfumery.

Deer and rabbit resistance: While violets are not entirely resistant to deer and rabbits, they are not usually the first choice for these animals. However, in the absence of preferred food sources, deer and rabbits may still eat violets.

Guide Information

Hardiness 3 - 9
Plant Type Annuals, Perennials
Plant Family Viola - Violets
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Season of Interest Spring (Early,Mid,Late)
Summer (Early,Mid,Late)
Fall
Winter
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Fragrant, Showy
Attracts Bees, Butterflies
Landscaping Ideas Beds and Borders, Edging, Ground Covers, Patio and Containers, Ponds and Streams, Underplanting Roses and Shrubs
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Coastal Garden, Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage
Compare All Viola - Violets Guides with Viola - Violets

Creatikon Studio, Shutterstock, 

While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.

Guide Information

Hardiness 3 - 9
Plant Type Annuals, Perennials
Plant Family Viola - Violets
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Season of Interest Spring (Early,Mid,Late)
Summer (Early,Mid,Late)
Fall
Winter
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Fragrant, Showy
Attracts Bees, Butterflies
Landscaping Ideas Beds and Borders, Edging, Ground Covers, Patio and Containers, Ponds and Streams, Underplanting Roses and Shrubs
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Coastal Garden, Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage
Compare All Viola - Violets Guides with Viola - Violets

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