Violet, Heartsease (Johnny-Jump-Up,
Heartsease Pansy)
Viola tricolor
Family: Violaceae
Annual, self-seeding. They like to grow in a moist, shady spot,
lending their deep velvety blue, purple and yellow colors to the spring
or fall garden. When planted in beds near the lawn, they will eject
their seeds into the thatch and eventually “jump up” in delightful colonies.
The entire violet contains saponins and salicylates, traditionally used
to treat allergic skin eruptions of children. We have seen it allay
the pain of hives in seconds. Cultivation: Extra care.
Dislikes having its roots disturbed, so best to direct seed in fertile
garden bed in early spring, or start in the greenhouse in small pots.
Here in Oregon, I notice them coming up in mid-winter when rains banish
frost with a wet blanket of clouds. Germination typically takes 16
days. Space 6 inches apart. Grows to 1 foot.
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