White forms of a purple flower
Sweet violet is usually deep purple, but it also occurs in a white form, and many violas and pansies come in clean white, often with a yellow throat or dark whiskers. The native violet of south-eastern Australia, Viola hederacea, carries white petals tipped with purple, which makes it a lovely natural blend of both.
What white violets stand for
In the Victorian language of flowers, violets traditionally stand for modesty and faithfulness. White ones add a feeling of innocence and are sometimes used in small posies for weddings and christenings.
Making them thrive
- Plant in rich, moisture-holding soil in part shade.
- Mulch lightly to keep the roots cool.
- Water regularly, because dry spells make them sulk.
- Divide spreading clumps after flowering.
Edible flowers
Sweet violet petals are edible and are traditionally crystallised for cake decoration. Only use plants you know are free of sprays, and be sure of the species before you eat anything.
In a pot, white violas look crisp beside blue-flowered plants such as forget-me-not or lobelia, and they brighten a shady verandah in winter. Keep the potting mix evenly moist, because violas dislike drying out completely. Pick off faded flowers every few days and the plant will keep producing new ones for months.
Seasonal notes
White violas look especially fresh in an autumn planting that flowers through winter. They may stop when summer heat arrives in warm regions of Australia.
