Viola cornuta pink/lilac

Viola cornuta Pink/Lilac Care Guide

Viola cornuta, also known as Horned Violet, is a hardy, compact perennial that produces delicate, fragrant blooms in soft pink and lilac shades. This charming plant is perfect for borders, containers, rock gardens, and edging pathways, adding long-lasting color throughout the seasons. Known for its easy-care nature and continuous flowering, Viola cornuta is a favorite among gardeners looking for a low-maintenance yet vibrant display.

Ideal Growing Conditions

• Botanical Name: Viola cornuta
• Common Name: Horned Violet
• Plant Type: Hardy perennial (often grown as an annual or biennial)
• Mature Size: Typically grows 15-25cm in height with a spread of 20-30cm
• Flowering Period: Blooms from spring to autumn, with peak flowering in early summer
• Foliage: Small, dark green, semi-evergreen leaves
• Hardiness: Fully hardy in USDA Zones 5-9, tolerating light frost

Light and Soil Requirements

• Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade. Thrives best with morning sun and afternoon shade in hotter climates.
• Soil: Grows well in moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
• pH Level: Prefers neutral to slightly acidic soil (pH 6.0-7.0).

Watering and Moisture

• Regular Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water regularly, especially in dry weather.
• Drought Tolerance: Moderately drought-tolerant once established, but performs best with consistent moisture.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Planting and Maintenance

How to Plant Viola cornuta

• Planting Time: Best planted in early spring or autumn.
• Spacing: Space plants 15-25cm apart to allow for good air circulation.
• Planting Depth: Ensure roots are just below the soil surface, and firm the soil gently around the base.
• Container Growing: Thrives in pots, hanging baskets, and window boxes when planted in well-draining potting mix.

Pruning and Deadheading

• Regular Deadheading: Remove faded flowers to encourage continuous blooming and prevent self-seeding.
• Light Trimming: Cut back leggy stems in midsummer to promote bushier growth.
• End of Season Care: Trim plants after flowering to encourage fresh foliage and potential reblooming.

Feeding and Fertilization

• Spring Feeding: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
• Organic Boost: Work in compost or slow-release fertilizer at planting time to enrich the soil.
• Avoid Excess Nitrogen: Too much nitrogen can lead to excess foliage growth with fewer flowers.

Common Pests, Diseases, and Seasonal Care

Potential Pests and Diseases

• Aphids: Can occasionally attack tender shoots and buds.
  • Solution: Spray with soapy water or neem oil to deter infestations.
• Slugs and Snails: May nibble on young leaves.
  • Solution: Use organic slug pellets, crushed eggshells, or copper tape as barriers.
• Powdery Mildew: Can develop in humid conditions with poor air circulation.
  • Solution: Improve airflow by thinning overcrowded plants and avoiding overhead watering.

Seasonal Care Tips

• Spring: Apply fertilizer, prune lightly, and plant new seedlings if needed.
• Summer: Keep well-watered, deadhead regularly, and trim if leggy.
• Autumn: Mulch around plants for winter protection.
• Winter: Hardy varieties may survive mild winters, but in harsh climates, protect with fleece or move containers to a sheltered spot.

Garden Uses and Companion Planting

Viola cornuta is a versatile, long-flowering plant that enhances garden displays in a variety of settings:

• Border and Pathway Edging – Provides a delicate and continuous color display.
• Rock Gardens and Cottage Gardens – Blends beautifully with other perennials and spring bulbs.
• Containers and Hanging Baskets – Perfect for patios, balconies, and small spaces.
• Ground Cover – Forms a low-growing carpet of blooms in flower beds.

Ideal Companion Plants

• Spring Bulbs (Tulips, Daffodils) – Complements early-season flowering.
• Heuchera – Adds contrast with richly colored foliage.
• Lobelia – Works well in hanging baskets and mixed containers.
• Primroses and Pansies – Extend the blooming period in cooler seasons.

Summary

Viola cornuta Pink/Lilac is a hardy, low-maintenance flowering perennial that thrives in full sun to partial shade with moist, well-drained soil. It produces beautiful, long-lasting flowers from spring to autumn, making it an ideal choice for borders, rock gardens, and containers. With regular deadheading, moderate feeding, and consistent watering, this delightful plant will reward you with a stunning display of delicate pink and lilac blooms throughout the growing season

• Size
  P14, colour pot

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Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

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