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Garden Pansy

Viola x wittrockiana

Please keep in mind that it is illegal to uproot a plant without the landowner's consent and care should be taken at all times not to damage wild plants. Wild plants should never be picked for pleasure and some plants are protected by law.
For more information please download the BSBI Code of Conduct PDF document.

Contents

Plant Profile

Flowering Months:
JAN  FEB  MAR  APR  MAY  JUN  JUL  AUG  SEP  OCT  NOV  DEC
(in flower all year round)
Order:
Malpighiales
Family:
Violaceae (Violet)
Type:
Flower
Life Cycle:
Perennial
Maximum Size:
25 centimetres tall
Habitats:
Gardens, parks, rocky places, wasteland.

Flower:
֍
Purple, 5 petals
 
Most commonly violet, or violet and yellow in colour, black stripes in the centre, 5 petals.
Fruit:
Small green capsules. The seeds develop inside the capsules.
Leaves:
Scallop-shaped, alternate leaves which appear in basal clumps. Approximately 4cm long.
Aroma:
As a garden escape, this flower has many cultivars, all with a range of scents and some without any scent at all.
Other Names:
Heart's-ease, Ladies' Delight, Stepmother's Flower, Wild Pansy.
Frequency (UK):
Common  

Similar Species

Other Information

Summary

Viola x wittrockiana, also known as the Pansy, is a hybrid plant in the violet family, Violaceae. It is a cross between Viola tricolor, also known as wild pansy, and Viola lutea. It is typically found in gardens, parks and it's also used as a pot plant. It has large, brightly coloured flowers that come in a wide range of colours, including purple, yellow, red, pink, and white. The flowers are usually 2.5-5 cm across and the plant is a short-lived perennial or biennial. It's often used in flower beds, borders and rock gardens and it's easy to grow from seeds or cutting. It can survive in a wide range of conditions and it's a popular ornamental plant.

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Garden pansy, scientifically known as Viola x wittrockiana, is a popular flowering plant that belongs to the family Violaceae. This hybrid species is a cross between several other Viola species and is widely grown for its brightly colored and attractive flowers.

Garden pansies are known for their wide variety of colors, which range from deep purple, blue, yellow, pink, red, and even black. These beautiful flowers have a distinctive pattern on their petals, which includes dark blotches in the center of the flower, often referred to as the "face." The flowers are also fragrant, which makes them a popular choice for gardeners who want to add a sweet aroma to their outdoor space.

Garden pansies are known for their ability to grow in a wide range of conditions. They thrive in cool temperatures, making them a perfect choice for early spring or fall planting. In warmer climates, garden pansies may struggle during the summer months but can still produce beautiful flowers if given proper care. Garden pansies are relatively easy to grow and care for, making them a popular choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners alike.

When planting garden pansies, it is important to choose a location that receives plenty of sunlight. They prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, and they should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist. Garden pansies can be grown in containers or planted directly into the ground, depending on your preference.

One of the great things about garden pansies is that they are relatively low-maintenance plants. They do not require frequent pruning, and deadheading spent blooms will encourage the plant to produce new flowers. Garden pansies can be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks to encourage healthy growth and flowering.

In addition to being a beautiful addition to any garden, garden pansies also have some medicinal properties. They contain salicylic acid, which is used in some over-the-counter pain medications. Garden pansies have also been used in traditional medicine to treat respiratory illnesses, skin conditions, and even as a natural diuretic.

Garden pansies have a rich history and cultural significance. They were first cultivated in the early 19th century in England, where they quickly became popular for their vibrant colors and ability to bloom throughout the winter months. The first garden pansies were developed from crosses between several wild viola species, including Viola tricolor, Viola lutea, and Viola altaica.

Over the years, garden pansies have become an important part of various cultures and traditions. In some cultures, they are associated with love, romance, and loyalty. In others, they are used as a symbol of remembrance, particularly for those who have passed away. In the United States, garden pansies are often used to celebrate Valentine's Day and other special occasions.

Garden pansies have also been bred to have different characteristics, including larger blooms, stronger fragrances, and even more vibrant colors. Some of the more popular cultivars include 'Majestic Giants,' 'Jolly Joker,' and 'Black Magic.'

In terms of pests and diseases, garden pansies are relatively resistant. However, they can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot, particularly if they are planted in areas with poor drainage. To prevent these issues, it is important to ensure that garden pansies are planted in well-draining soil and are not overwatered.

In addition to being a popular choice for outdoor gardens, garden pansies are also a great choice for indoor gardens and houseplants. They can be grown in pots or containers and placed on windowsills or other areas with bright, indirect light. In fact, garden pansies have been found to help purify the air by removing toxins such as benzene, formaldehyde, and xylene.

Garden pansies are also a great choice for attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies to your garden. The bright colors and fragrant blooms make them an irresistible choice for these beneficial insects, which can help improve the health and productivity of your garden.

If you are interested in growing garden pansies, there are many resources available online and in gardening books and magazines. You can find information on everything from planting and care to pest and disease management, as well as tips for creating stunning garden displays using garden pansies and other flowering plants.

Garden pansies are not only beautiful and easy to grow, but they are also edible! The flowers of the garden pansy can be used to add color and flavor to a variety of dishes, including salads, desserts, and cocktails. The flowers have a slightly sweet and floral taste and can be used fresh or dried.

To use garden pansies in cooking, it is important to make sure that they have not been treated with any pesticides or chemicals. Harvest the flowers in the morning when they are at their freshest and most flavorful. Rinse the flowers gently in cool water and remove any green parts or stems. You can then use the flowers to add color and flavor to your dishes or garnish your drinks.

In addition to their culinary uses, garden pansies have also been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. They contain compounds such as flavonoids and anthocyanins, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Garden pansies have been used to treat a variety of ailments, including coughs, colds, headaches, and even heart palpitations.

In summary, garden pansies are not only a beautiful addition to your garden but also a versatile and beneficial plant. Whether you are using them to add color and flavor to your dishes or to treat minor ailments, garden pansies are a plant with a rich history and many uses. So why not plant a few in your garden or add them to your indoor collection and discover all the wonderful things they have to offer!

Facts about the Gardenn Pansy

Facts about garden pansies (Viola x wittrockiana):

  • Garden pansies are a hybrid species that were first cultivated in England in the early 19th century.
  • They are a popular choice for outdoor and indoor gardens due to their vibrant colors, low maintenance, and ability to bloom throughout the winter months.
  • Garden pansies can be used as a symbol of love, remembrance, and loyalty in various cultures and traditions.
  • They come in a wide range of colors and have been bred to have different characteristics, such as larger blooms and stronger fragrances.
  • Garden pansies are relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but they can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot.

Garden pansies are a beautiful and versatile flowering plant that can add color and fragrance to any garden or indoor space. They have a rich history and cultural significance, and are associated with love, remembrance, and loyalty in various cultures. With their wide range of colors, low-maintenance nature, and ability to bloom throughout the winter months, they are a popular choice for gardeners of all levels of experience. While they can be susceptible to fungal diseases, they are relatively resistant to pests and are a great choice for attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies to your garden. Additionally, garden pansies are edible and have medicinal properties, making them a versatile and beneficial plant.


Distribution Map

Reproduced by kind permission of the BSBI.

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