LABRADOR VIOLET SEEDS

Viola labradorica

The delightful little Labrador Violet has uniquely pretty leaves in a shade of dark aubergine-forest-green. The flowers are a typical shade of Viola violet, and their contrast with the leaves is really very striking, for a violet.

Entirely edible and reliably perennial, this diminutive beauty belongs next to Golden Alexandria Alpine Strawberries in dappled shade. Tuck them in amongst the roots of an old, gnarly tree. Labrador Violet will also be happy in the same part shade that the lettuce does best in, and it's an especially appropriate companion for golden foliage, so try Yellow Tennis Ball or Gildenstern lettuces for maximum color contrast. Compact Buckler Sorrel and Chocolate Soldier Columbine are also good companions.

If you need even more inspiration, check out the gorgeous photos (and everything else!) on Gayla Trail's fabulous blog.

Labrador Violets can be frustrating to germinate, but are worth it: sow in situ outdoors in late autumn to early winter or start indoors in January or February. Sow seeds just below surface of moist soil, mist generously; cover with plastic to maintain moisture; kept moist at 65F, some seeds may germinate within two weeks. Prick out those seedlings and grow on in individual containers in not-too-bright light at room temperature. Place the pot of ungerminated seeds into the referigerator for 6 weeks, checking regularly for germination. Remove from the refrigerator, mist to replenish lost moisture, cover again and keep at 50F. Germination will be erratic and prolonged, but is usually reliable.

Packet contains at least 30 seeds.