Viola hybrida Matrix F1 Lavender Shades - Pansy

Hybrid pansies from the selection Matrix F1 'Lavender Shades' have an abundance of romantically-coloured flowers in subtle and refined shades. They bloom in different shades of lavender, and their petals are often streaked with darker tones. Sometimes, they appear almost white, with just a hint of pearl-grey. Medium-sized blooms flower over a long period of time on compact, free-flowering plants that are resistant to cold, diseases, and heat. This variety takes off very well in spring and does not bolt with the first heat, ensuring a long flowering season. It is easy to grow in humus-rich and moist soil, in a sun or partial shade.

Garden pansies, sometimes called Swiss giant pansies, are actually hybrids grouped in the Viola x wittrockiana group. They belong to the Violaceae family and are most often grown as annuals or biennials, though they are actually short-lived perennials. The 'Matrix F1 Lavender Shades' variety are bushy plants that quickly form compact slightly spreading clumps, 20 cm (7.9 in) in height and 20 to 30 cm (11.8 in) in width. They bloom from late winter to late spring, or from late spring to late summer. 'Matrix F1 Lavender Shades' pansies have open, medium-sized flowers, 4 to 5 cm (1.6 - 2 in) in diameter. There is a whole range of lavender-blue colours, depending on the plant, from the palest to almost purple, finely veined and streaked with ultramarine blue or dark lavender, around a tiny bright yellow center. The medium green leaves are elliptical and broadly crenated.

In the garden, they are at their best in window boxes, on the windowsill, where you can have them right under your nose whilst keeping them sheltered from the cold. Try combining them with primroses, wallflowers, grape hyacinths, daisies... and even with grasses like Japanese sedge for a graphic, contemporary effect. Lovely combined with Heucheras and tulips, the blue-green of glaucous fescues also enhances them beautifully.

Pansy petals are edible, their colours will bring a touch of originality to your salads and pastries. For this, think of growing them as you would grow your own vegetables - as naturally as possible.

Note: Please be aware that our young plant plugs are professional products reserved for experienced gardeners: upon receipt, transplant them as soon as possible, into pots, window boxes or directly into flower beds.