Viola rosulata

RHS Plant Profile
rosette-leaved viola
Alpine Rockery Cactus Succulent

A rare compact, clump-forming evergreen alpine perennial with tight rosettes of pale, olive green, succulent-like leaves. Flowers are white flushed with purple or yellow, and appear close to the foliage in rings on the edge of the rosette. In the wild these would grow in deep volcanic sand so are suitable rockeries or alpine planting, but can be quite challenging to grow

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
1–2 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.1-0.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Violaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
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
Plant Range
Chile, Argentina

How to Grow

Cultivation

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

Propagation

Propagate from seed, but germination success rates are low so patience may be required

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Rock garden

Pruning

Deadhead to prolong flowering. After flowering cut back vigorous plants to keep compact

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs and snails

Diseases

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