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Herbaceous Perennial

Viola palustris

marsh violet

A species of rhizomatous, moisture-loving perennial with dark green, heart-shaped leaves and small, violet-purple flowers which appear from April to July

Other common names
alpine marsh violet
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Chalk
Moisture
Poorly–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Purple Green
Summer Purple Green
Autumn Purple Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

East–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Violaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy, Clump forming
Genus

Viola can be annuals, biennials or deciduous or evergreen perennials, with simple or pinnately lobed leaves and 5-petalled flowers of characteristic shape

Name status

Correct

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown in late winter or early spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types
Pruning

Deadhead regularly to prolong flowering

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs, snails, aphids, glasshouse red spider mite and violet gall midge

Diseases

May be susceptible to powdery mildews, pansy leaf spot, pansy downy mildew, a virus and a rust

Get involved

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