Common Dog-violet 'Purpurea'

Viola riviniana 'Purpurea' (often sold as 'Labradorica' group) is a striking, low-growing perennial with dark, heart-shaped foliage that is a deep, smoky purple hue. This dark foliage provides a perfect backdrop for the small, dainty blue-violet flowers that appear in spring and early summer. It is a versatile ground cover, spreading via both short runners and self-seeding, making it ideal for naturalising in woodland gardens, along path edges, or in the cracks of stone steps. In the UK, it is exceptionally hardy and maintains its dark foliage most of the year, though it may go dormant in very cold winters. It is much more tolerant of sun than many other violets, provided the soil does not dry out completely. It provides a wonderful contrast to lime-green ferns or yellow-leaved hostas. While it does seed around, it is rarely aggressive and is easily controlled. It is a charming, low-maintenance choice for adding deep colour to the garden floor.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Any moist but well-drained soil.

Hardiness: H7 — below −20°C.

Flowering: Apr, May, Jun.