Viola X Wittrockiana
Garden Pansy · Maceška · Wizard Face
Description
Source: leafsnapThe garden pansy (Viola × wittrockiana) is a type of large-flowered hybrid plant cultivated as a garden flower. It is derived by hybridization from several species in the section Melanium ("the pansies") of the genus Viola, particularly Viola tricolor, a wildflower of Europe and western Asia known as heartsease. It is sometimes known as Viola tricolor var. hortensis, but this scientific name is ambiguous. While Viola tricolor var. hortensis Groenland & Rümpler is a synonym of Viola × wittrockiana, Viola tricolor var. hortensis DC. refers to a horticultural variety of wild pansy (Viola tricolor without interspecific hybridization) that had been illustrated in Flora Danica in 1777 before the existence of Viola × wittrockiana.The chromosome number of Viola × wittrockiana is 2n = 44–52, with most cultivars being 2n = 48. The flower is 5 to 8 centimetres (2 to 3 in) in diameter and has two slightly overlapping upper petals, two side petals, and a single bottom petal with a slight beard emanating from the flower's center. These petals are usually white or yellow, purplish, or blue. The plant may grow to 23 cm (9 in) in height, and prefers sun to varying degrees and well-draining soils.
Care Guide
💧 Water
Viola x wittrockiana is native to humid forests and mountainous areas, so it is not drought-tolerant. However, excessive watering will lead to the decay and death of the plant. If it is planted in gardens, water according to the weather conditions only to keep the soil from excessive dryness. In pots, water thoroughly when the soil surface is dry. Consistent moisture keeps Viola x wittrockiana blossoms soft and supple, but roots won't tolerate soggy soil. Water Viola x wittrockiana regularly through the growing season, but allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. For Viola x wittrockiana in containers, if the temperatures are warm, they may even need to be watered twice a day. Always check the soil if in doubt. If the top inch of the soil is dry, you will want to water.
☀️ Light
🌡️ Temperature
Pansies are not fond of heat and will start to wither as temperatures rise.
💨 Humidity high (>60%)
This plant needs special care because it loves high humidity levels of 60-80% or more. The best way to achieve this is by placing a humidifier near the plant. Daily misting is also essential! Make sure the room has good ventilation.
🪴 Soil
🌱 Fertilizer
Common slow-release commercial compound fertilizers can be used for Viola x wittrockiana. During the growth and bloom time, thin compound liquid fertilizer can be applied once every two weeks. For specific application methods, please refer to the product specifications of the compound fertilizers. It is important to use liquid fertilizer rather than granular fertilizer because it is easier for the plant to absorb the liquid fertilizer in the colder months. Feed Viola x wittrockiana about every two to three weeks during the season—this will ensure they have enough nutrients to continue growing.
🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning
🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity
Viola x wittrockiana has no toxic effects reported.