This compact hybrid perennial forms a mound of dark green, saw-toothed foliage; bright, red-purple flowers cover the plant during the long blooming season; good overwintering; quite heat-tolerant.

Good overwintering; quite heat-tolerant

Excellent as accent and in borders, containers, mass plantings, rock and woodland gardens

Viola 'Sorbet™ Carmine Rose'

(Sorbet Carmine Rose Viola)

Violas, small relatives of Pansies, are short-lived perennials. Many north-western gardeners tend to grow them as annuals, as not all hybrids are as heat and cold tolerant as they need to be in the lower hardiness zones. Violas are wonderfully easy to grow; choosing from the plethora of colours available is part of the delight of replanting each year. They are popular at any time of the year, but many people love to plant them either in early spring or fall, when the cheery little flowers brighten up an otherwise dull landscape. Once they start blooming, you can prolong the season by deadheading them regularly. Violas do well in average soil. Though they prefer lots of sunshine, they will do well in part shade, too; the plant may, however, be leggier. Water the plants well, but allow the soil to dry slightly before watering again.