About Viola

The viola is both a species of flowers and an individual flower. The species is a family of plants such as pansies, Johnny jump-ups, violettas and violets. These plants grow around the world in hundreds of varieties, both wild and hybridized. They are five-petal flowers usually with heart-shaped green leaves. Viola plants come in many colors, from apricot and tricolor to deep purple flowers. These flowers are popular because of their color, variety and versatility.

Facts

The viola species are easy to grow in home or commercial landscaping. They grow from seed scattered early in spring or from bedding plants. The flowers take crowding well and mix with other plants for compact landscapes. The flowers prefer rich soil that is well-drained but tolerate other soils if watered regularly. When their heads are sheared off, they bloom again. Violas self-seed readily. They spread into lawns and landscaping but are not invasive enough to kill existing plants.

Benefits

Violas are used extensively in landscaping. They form colorful borders and mass plantings in temperate climates. These plants do well in containers, planters and hanging baskets. Violas take moisture and partial shade better than many plants. They are used as foundation plantings next to houses and in shade zones. They lend themselves to design. Due to their wide color range, they can be planted to create floral pictures or names on landscaping.

Considerations

Plant violas away from summer heat. They shrivel on hot days and in arid soil. The violas attract slugs. They provide habitat for small snails and slugs in many zones and must be watched for infestations. The violas are prone to fungus disease if kept in wet soil or damp areas. Use fungicide as needed. Many garden centers label violas as perennials, but the plants rarely thrive beyond two years.

Edible Uses

Viola flowers are edible. They can be dipped in sugar and used to decorate cakes or other desserts. The fresh flowers are tossed into fruit or vegetable salads as garnish. Add viola flowers to cooked vegetables or as a topper on ice cream or gelatin desserts. Tuck a viola flower into whipped cream on a soda or sundae. Viola leaves are dried as an ingredient in herbal teas. The color and texture make violas popular accents in gourmet dishes.

Crafts

Dry violas for use as dried flower cards or for casting in candle shells. Dried violas retain their color better than many flowers. The viola flowers press easily in books for craft needs. Viola flowers are dried and used in potpourris and petal jars.

Resources

• National Garden Bureau: Violas