Pansy, Wittrock's Violet
Viola x wittrockiana

Family: Violaceae

What it is like

An annual herb. The stems are 10-25 cm long. They are branched. The leaves spread along the stem. The lower leaf blades are oval and almost heart shaped at the base. The upper leaves are more narrow with a wedge shaped base. The flowers are flattened and round in outline. They can be 3-6 cm across.

There are about 500 Viola species.

Where it is found

A temperate plant.

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia, Belgium, Britain, Europe, France, Hawaii, Pacific, USA

How it is used for food

The flowers and leaves are eaten in salads, desserts, soups, ice drinks and candied. The fresh or dried flowers can be used for tea.

Edible parts

Flowers, leaves, flowers - tea

How it is grown

Plants can be grown from seed.

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Viola hortensis Wettstein; Viola tricolor L. var. hortensis DC.;