Viola cornuta Irish Molly

Viola cornuta 'Irish Molly' or Horned Violet is a small perennial spreading plant that is easy to flower generously and for a long time. Its numerous flowers bloom from April to September, brightening up borders and balconies with their beautiful copper-toned petals. From yellow to brown to red, the colour range is warm and energetic. Place it in partial shade or indirect sun and in cool and rich soil.

The 'Irish Molly' Horned Pansy is a spreading perennial with a height not exceeding 15 cm (6in) and a width of 20 cm (8in). Its base consists of a rosette of oval, slightly dentate leaves, of a beautiful dense and shiny green, which remain during winter. From this base emerge upright but flexible and rather fragile stems. They bear pretty little flowers measuring 2 to 3 cm (1in) at their tips. They have 5 petals: 2 overlapping at the top, 2 spreading laterally, and the last one completes the bottom with sometimes a little 'dimple on the chin'. This arrangement of petals, as well as the patterns they are adorned with, indeed give them the appearance of a mischievous face. In shades of red, copper, with some touches of brown and yellow, they display a set of shimmering and lively hues.

This perennial, whose lifespan is not exceptionally long, self-seeds spontaneously and can withstand the cold. It prefers ordinary soils, not too dry, and can make do with a little sun. It will thrive at the front of borders, between the slabs of a path, or on a damp rockery.

This Irish Molly, like all Horned Violets, is welcome in spring planters. Alongside Daffodils and Tulips, it energizes the surroundings of the house and adds intensity to compositions. It also borders walkways for two seasons and brings a colourful touch in front of summer perennials that make room for them in the shade of excessive sun.