Garden Viola

Viola is derived from the Latin viola (a violet). The name has been in use since the Middle Ages and became common in the middle of the 19th century when the use of flower names became popular.

Viola is called Johnny-jump-up around here. The botanical name Viola cornuta Violaceae is native to Spain and the Pyrenees.

 Viola is a compact annual or short-lived perennial. And here, in Ohio, they will often survive our winters and greet us in the very early spring. We have seen them blooming when the snow is still falling. 

The blooms are vibrant and  create a mass of color for weeks.

Viola's typically have heart-shaped, scalloped leaves, like those shown above.

Viola's can wander. And Mom and I often find a few sprouting up on her lawn every spring. I bring them home and transplant them in my flower beds. 

Viola prefers partial shade to full sun. And they love a rich, well-drained soil.

DIRECT SEEDING

Viola's grow easily from seed. And I've directly sowed in at a depth of 1/4" and then mist until  the ground is damp. 

PLANTING

If you are purchasing them. Look for  a healthy plant with lots of buds. 

Remove the viola plants from the cell by pushing up on the bottom of the container, as you can see their stems are very delicate.

Loosen and soil around the roots and plant in the ground and water in a little.

My Grandma and Great Grandma's middle name was Viola. And these happy little flowers bring a smile to my face each time I see them.