Tufted violet requires evenly moist soil that never dries out and never floods. In these conditions, it will grow in part shade or even in full sun where summers are cool in the North. In the South, it despairs of the July and August heat and humidity; shear plants back and wait for fall for a second show. Mulch in late winter to retain moisture, but avoid smothering the crowns, which may cause the plants to rot. Deadhead to keep the plants looking fresh and produce more flowers. Tufted violet grows readily from seeds, but it can also be propagated from cuttings.
For sheer abundance of flowers, few perennials come close to producing the number of blossoms (for as long) as the tufted violet. Flowering begins in early summer and continues until hard frost cuts plants down. This plant shrugs off light frosts. Blossoms of tufted violet are 1 to 1% inches in diameter and often have a light fragrance. Selections are usually of one color and some feature a contrasting eye. They are usually compact growers that spread two to three times as wide as they are tall. Tufted violet is easy to grow and requires little maintenance.
ZONES: 5–9
BLOOM TIME: Summer to fall
LIGHT: Part shade
HEIGHT: 8–10 inches
INTEREST: Masses of small, pansy-like flowers from early summer until fall
Grow large groups of tufted violet wherever you want long-lasting splashes of color. It can be used as a ground cover under trees and shrubs. It also provides summer color amid wildflowers and flowering bulbs that have their spring fling and then take the rest of the year off. This plant is a superb perennial for patio containers and window boxes, because it flowers for such a long period with little care. Pot some up for the kitchen windowsill—they’re sure to bring more than a few smiles.