Violas

Violas (Viola tricolor), often called Johnny-jump-ups or heartsease, are versatile, cool-season flowers known for their vibrant blooms and delicate appearance. These compact plants are ideal for both garden beds and containers, offering a cheerful burst of color in early spring and fall. With their charming, often bi-colored petals, violas are not only beautiful but also edible, making them perfect for decorating salads, cakes, and other dishes.

In cooler climates like Zone 5, violas thrive in full sun to partial shade and bloom from early spring through the cooler months of fall. They can be planted in early spring, and with proper care, they’ll provide continuous flowers throughout the season. Violas are relatively easy to grow, tolerant of light frosts, and perfect for adding color to bouquets or as a ground cover in flower beds.