Come-and-Cuddle-Me
Viola tricolor (vy-OH-la TRY-kull-lur)
Wild pansy is an annual, biennial or short-lived herbaceous perennial wildflower in the violet family (Violaceae). It is the parent plant of modern pansy hybrids and was introduced to North America from Europe. Wild pansy grows 3 to 10 inches in height and 3 to 12 inches in width. It is found in meadow-like rocky outcrops, dry and sloping meadows, banks, fields, gardens, wastelands, sand fields and seaside beaches. The epithet is Latin for “three-colored” and references the flower colors. Wild pansy grows best in full sun and moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soils. It blooms from spring to summer and is usually short-lived but freely reseeds. Its flowers can produce up to 50 seeds in each capsule, allowing it to spread easily, although it is not particularly aggressive. Water this plant regularly but do not overwater. The beautiful flowers are edible in small amounts but have little flavor. They are sometimes used as garnishes. Use this plant in containers, beds and borders. It is a wonderful addition to a butterfly, pollinator, cottage, fairy or edible garden. Or plant it in woodlands or meadows, beside ponds or along slopes or banks. Quick ID Hints Flowers zygomorphic, 2-lipped, and tri-colored: violet, white and gold. Leaves are ovate to lanceolate; the terminal lobe of the stipule with 4 or more crenations on each side. Pansy-like (but smaller) flowers in spring-summer. Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: It is susceptible to many of the pests and diseases that affect bedding pansies. The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home & Garden Information Center has a factsheet on common pests and diseases. VIDEO Created by Homegrown featuring Travis Birdsell, County Extension Director and Extension Agent for Ashe County Extension More information on Viola .
Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 61 attributes.
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