How to Grow Sicilian Violet
Sicilian Violet
Viola odorata subsp. siciliensis
flowerSicilian Violet is a fragrant perennial flowering plant belonging to the Viola genus, characterized by deep purple or violet-colored blooms and heart-shaped leaves. It produces delightfully scented flowers that have been prized for centuries in perfumery and ornamental gardening. This charming ground cover thrives in shaded woodland conditions and spreads slowly via rhizomes.
When should you plant Sicilian Violet in your zone?
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Example Sicilian Violet timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Sicilian Violet
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Sicilian Violet blooms
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Sicilian Violet dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5-9, with best performance in zones 6-8
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Seedling
3-4 weeksTiny seedlings emerge with simple oval cotyledons and initial true leaves. Growth is slow and delicate.
Keep soil moist but not soggy. Provide bright, indirect light. Thin seedlings to adequate spacing. Maintain consistent 65-70°F temperatures.
Vegetative Growth
6-8 weeksEstablishment of heart-shaped leaves and root system. Plant gradually expands, forming a low rosette or mat of foliage.
Water regularly to maintain soil moisture. Apply balanced fertilizer monthly. Mulch lightly around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Avoid heavy feeding.
Flowering
8-12 weeks (spring to early summer; may re-flower in fall)Deep purple or violet flowers emerge on short stems from leaf axils. Flowers are fragrant, especially in morning. Multiple blooms appear progressively.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming. Maintain consistent moisture. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues. Fertilize with diluted bloom-promoting fertilizer every 2-3 weeks.
Seed Production
3-4 weeks after floweringIf flowers are not deadheaded, seedpods form and mature. Seeds develop in small capsules that eventually split open to disperse seeds.
Allow some flowers to go to seed for self-sowing if desired. Seeds are often dispersed by myrmecochory (ants). Collect seed pods before they fully dehisce if you want to control seed spread.
Dormancy/Winter Rest
3-4 months (late fall through early spring)Plant foliage persists as evergreen leaves but growth slows dramatically. Flowering ceases in cold months. Plant appears compact and minimal.
Reduce watering in winter but don't allow soil to dry completely. Mulch heavily in colder zones (5-6) for frost protection. Avoid fertilizing during dormancy.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity by misting; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap; ensure adequate air circulation
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Remove by hand in early morning; set up beer traps; apply copper barriers; encourage predatory beetles and birds
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Improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering; apply sulfur dust or neem oil at first sign; remove affected leaves
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Hand-pick affected leaves; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; prune out heavily infested growth
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Ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering; remove and discard affected plants; improve soil aeration
Uses
Candied Flowers & Garnish
CulinarySicilian Violet flowers are edible and have been traditionally used to decorate cakes, pastries, and desserts. They can be candied with egg white and sugar to create decorative confections. [source]
Traditional Herbal Remedy
MedicinalHistorically used in herbal medicine to treat respiratory conditions, coughs, and skin inflammations. Violet leaf and flower tea was traditionally valued for its soothing properties. [source]
Perfumery & Fragrance
HouseholdSicilian Violet is prized by perfumers for its naturally sweet, delicate fragrance. Violet flowers and leaves have been used for centuries to produce violet fragrance and are a classic note in fine perfumes. [source]
Pressed Flowers & Art
CraftThe delicate flowers press beautifully and are ideal for pressed flower crafts, scrapbooking, bookmarks, and botanical art projects. Colors remain vibrant when properly dried. [source]
Pollinator Attractor
WildlifeEarly spring flowers provide important nectar and pollen sources for emerging bees and butterflies. Violets are also host plants for fritillary butterfly caterpillars. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
For cut flowers, harvest in early morning when flowers are freshest. Cut stems just above a leaf node. For fragrance, pick individual blooms at peak opening. Flowers typically last 3-5 days in a vase. For medicinal or perfumery use, harvest flowers when fully open and immediately dry by hanging in a warm, dark place. Flowers have the strongest fragrance in spring.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Sicilian Violet flowers contain ionone, a compound that temporarily desensitizes the sense of smell to violet scent, which is why the fragrance seems to disappear after a few moments—but reappears again shortly after.
- 🌱 Violets have two types of flowers: showy sterile flowers produced in spring and hidden self-fertile flowers that develop near the base of the plant in summer to ensure seed production.
- 🌱 In Victorian times, Sicilian Violet was so beloved that it became the symbol of faithfulness and virtue, and was featured prominently in the language of flowers. Napoleon was associated with the violet as his symbol of romantic devotion.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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