mix african violet flower seeds

Violet - A Symbol of Love and Beauty

Violets are a small bushy plant that belongs to the Violaceae family. They are native to Europe and Asia, but have also been introduced to North America and Australia. From old ages, they have been grown in gardens, and now they have spread to most of Europe. Some of the popular common names of the plants are Sweet Violet, English Violet, Garden Violet, Florist’s Violet, wood violet, common violet, garden violet, fragrant violet, sweet blue violet, and violet.

Why Grow Violets?

Violets are a symbol of love and beauty. They have a sweet, unmistakable scent that has proved popular throughout the generations and has consequently been used in the production of many cosmetic fragrances and perfumes. They are commonly used as a remedy for coughs and sore throat, hoarseness, and tonsillitis. They are valued as an expectorant, diaphoretic, antipyretic, and anti-bacterial, diuretic, and as a laxative, in bilious affections. They are used either alone or in mixture with other herbs for catarrhal and pulmonary troubles and for calculous affections.

Benefits of Growing Violets

Violets are easy to grow and care for. They are a fragrant annual that can stand up well as a cut flower in a small bud vase. Plus, edible violet petals can be used to garnish cakes and pastries or tossed in a salad for a bright pop of color. They can be planted nearly anytime throughout spring and fall, though early spring is preferable. These plants enjoy light shade but will also thrive in sunny locations. While they tolerate many soil types, wild violets prefer soil that is moist, yet well-draining, and rich in organic matter. They can also be grown from seeds, making them an excellent choice for instant ground cover in a woodland garden.