Viola wittrockiana
Viola wittrockiana · Violaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant viola wittrockiana: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Garden Pansy
- Family
- Violaceae
- Form
- Annual or biennial herbaceous plant
- Flowering
- Autumn, winter, spring (depending on sowing)
- Adult size
- 20 to 30 cm in height
- Foliage
- Deciduous, medium green, toothed
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -15°C)
- Origin
- Horticultural hybrid (alpine and Mediterranean parents)
Care
Regular and moderate watering
Keep the soil moist without excess water, which would encourage rot. Water primarily at the base, avoiding the foliage. During active growth periods (spring-autumn), water 2 to 3 times per week depending on weather conditions. Reduce watering in winter.
Bright exposure
Prefer a sunny location (6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight) for abundant and colorful blooms. In very hot climates, it accepts afternoon partial shade to avoid rapid drying out. Insufficient light slows flowering.
Removal of faded flowers
Regularly pinch off faded flowers and leaves to extend the flowering period (natural branching). This operation encourages the plant to produce new flowers. At the end of the season, you can cut it back lightly if the plant becomes too sprawling.
Rich and well-draining soil
Use flower potting soil or a general-purpose mix enriched with well-decomposed compost. Pansies dread root asphyxiation: good drainage is essential. In pots, pour a layer of pebbles or shards at the bottom.
Balanced nutrition
Apply diluted liquid fertilizer every 15 days during active growth and flowering. Favor a balanced formula or one slightly rich in phosphorus (P) to support blooms. Reduce applications in winter.
Watch out for pests and diseases
Monitor for aphids and spider mites (in hot, dry climates). Powdery mildew can appear in stagnant humidity: improve air circulation. Regularly remove yellow or diseased leaves to prevent spread.
Did you know?
The pansy was born in the 19th century from intentional crosses between alpine violets and Mediterranean species, first carried out in Belgium and England. Its scientific name 'Wittrockiana' honors Swedish botanist Veit Bernhard Wittrock who conducted extensive work on this genus. In Victorian floral language, it symbolized tender thoughts — hence its romantic name.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Sweet violetViola odorata
- Labrador violetViola labradorica
- Horned violetViola cornuta
- Wood violetViola riviniana
- Field pansyViola arvensis
- Marsh violetViola palustris
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.