Description

Botanical Interests' Swiss Giants Pansy Seeds (Viola wittrockiana) are an heirloom variety that produces showy, velvety flowers in a beautiful array of colors, including blue, purple, yellow, apricot, orange, red, white, and bi-colors. Known for their large blooms (2″–2½”) and striking “faces” or blotches, these low, bushy plants stand 6″–9″ tall and are perfect for early spring gardens. A 1933 All-America Selections winner, this frost-tolerant perennial thrives in USDA zones 6–10 but is often grown as an annual. Use the edible petals to enhance dishes like soft cheese or baked goods, adding both color and flavor. A reliable reseeder, Swiss Giants pansies attract pollinators and are deer-resistant, making them a great addition to garden beds and containers.

130 seeds.

Variety Info:

Botanical Name: Viola wittrockiana
Family: Violaceae
Native: Only in cultivation
Hardiness: Frost-tolerant perennial in USDA zones 6–10; often grown as an annual. Reseeds readily.
Plant Dimensions: 6″–9″ tall
Variety Information: 2″-2½” flowers in a wide range of colors including blue, purple, yellow, apricot, orange, mahogany, red, white, and bi-colors. Most have “faces” or are blotched.
Exposure: Full sun to part shade
Bloom Period: Blooms heaviest in cool weather.
Attributes: Deer Resistant, Edible Flower

Sowing Info:

When to Sow Outside: RECOMMENDED. Cold Climates: 4 to 6 weeks before your average last frost date, or midsummer for fall and the following spring bloom. Mild Climates: Late summer for cool–season blooms.
When to Start Inside: 8 to 10 weeks before your average last frost date for early spring planting, and midsummer for fall planting in both mild and cold climates.
Days to Emerge: 7–20 days
Seed Depth: 1/8″
Seed Spacing: A group of 3 seeds every 4″–6″
Thinning: When ½–1″ tall, thin to 1 every 4″–6″

Growing Info:

Harvesting: For longest vase life, harvest flowers in the morning, just as flower buds begin to open.