Johnny Jump Up Viola (pack)

Johnny Jump Up Viola (Viola cornuta) is an open-pollinated perennial wildflower, also known as Wild Pansy. Its cheerful, low-growing blooms wear a purple and yellow face that brightens borders, containers, and edging, often appearing in early spring soon after the snow melts.

At a glance

• Botanical name: Viola cornuta
• Type: Open-pollinated perennial
• Days to germinate: 20 to 40 days
• Sun: Partial sun
• Planting depth: 1/4 inch
• Height at maturity: 3 to 6 inches
• USDA zones: 3 to 9
• Seeds per pack: about 567 (covers roughly 10 sq ft broadcast)

Best for

• Edging, borders, and rock gardens
• Containers and window boxes
• Pollinator plantings that draw bees and butterflies
• Cottage and naturalized garden styles
• Early-season color before most annuals start
• Edible flowers for garnishing salads and desserts

How to grow

Plant in fall or spring at a depth of 1/4 inch in soil that drains well; this viola adapts to a range of soil types. Provide partial sun and moderate water, and thin seedlings to 4 inches apart. Blooms appear in spring and fall, and plants are hardy through USDA zones 3 to 9. Native to southwest Europe.

Flavor profile

The flowers are edible with a mild, slightly sweet taste, ideal for garnishing salads, cakes, and cold drinks.

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