Parade of Pansies -- and Violas

I really should have titled this "Parade of Violas" because there are way more violas than pansies -- but "Parade of Pansies" had such a nice ring to it.  So anyway.....let's take a look at some of them.  And I say "some" because there are so many different varieties that you would get bored reading about them in one sitting.  So, I'm going to spread them out over the next few blogs.  Hopefully, you will find a few that you like for next year, because there isn't much left out there to buy now except for the same ole same ole.  As I go through the season I'll let you know which ones did the best so keep checking in.  But I'm going to start with the all time winner and one that I use over and over -- Sorbet Lemon Chiffon Viola.

This dainty looking little flower makes such an impact because it creates an 8"x8" mound covered in blooms -- all season -- and it doesn't get poutty with freezing temperatures and handles the heat just as well, so you will be able to enjoy them for a long time.  I plant them shoulder to shoulder in the containers for a quick impact and they have never complained.

A new favorite for this year -- and I may like it more for its name than anything -- is Penny Marlies viola.  The subtle purple and gold colors are so rich looking; and this viola always looks as though it isn't in a hurry -- just gonna hang out here and grow pretty.

Like all violas, Marlies will stay compact and handle the cold well -- and oh yeah -- just be pretty.

Let's jump over to a couple pansies for contrast.  The reds don't usually draw me to their table but I do like Panola Fire. It had a 'sassy" look that I thought would go well with some fine leafed companions.  

It has been doing well in the containers and not "melting" like some of the other pansies have done on these cold days.  The red/yellow combination is just bright enough to catch your eye -- not getting lost in green foliage.

In contract to the sassy look of Panola Fire is a really sweet pink pansy called Nature Frosty Rose.  

I do love this one but I have to admit it doesn't like partial shade and is stretching a bit; but it seems to be working well with the companion plants to give the whole container an "airy" look.  

You are probably asking why I put pansies in partial shade.  Not much choice with containers in the town:  tall trees, tall buildings, short days -- but I wanted to add some color so we are taking what we get.

Need to make a point about the names of these pansies and violas.  Sorbet, Penny, Panola, and Nature are all a series of plants from a grower; so there will be lots of others with that as their first name.  If you find you like that series, check the website for more and you will find lots of different colors.  

So, that's probably enough for today.  Many more to talk about so check in again real soon.  Well, not too soon -- I'm headed to a trade show and a conference this week to find more great plants for the summer containers.  Be back "sorta soon".