Sweet Violet 'Queen Charlotte'

Where will you find these nowadays? Certainly not in your 'big shed' garden centres!

Also known as Sweet pansy, Wood violet, English violet, Common violet and Garden violet.

These violets were very popular in late Victorian times.

Happy even in quite deep shade, the pale green foliage will carpet the ground. But the real treat comes in late February / early March when the first of the dainty 'lavender-blue flowers appear. In many cases its the scent you will notice before seeing the flower - there is no real way to describe this other than gorgeously sweet! Flowering can continue right through until May - and then sporadically through the year into autumn.

• Hardy, perennial.
• Flowers late February - May.
• Grow to approximately 8" (20 cm) high.
• Thrives in shade but will tolerate a full sun position.
• Likes a rich soil.
• Plant 10" (25 cm) apart.
• This plant will spread up to 24" (61 cm).
• Lovely and highly scented cut flower.

• Culinary Uses
• Wonderful for crystallising and using for cake decorations.
• Edible flowers.
• Used to make violet syrup.
• Used to make violet marshmallows and scones!

• Medicinal Uses
• Used in India to treat sore throats and tonsilitis.

• Other Uses
• Used in perfumes.