Viola wittrockiana Cool Wave Mélange- Swiss Garden Pansy

The Pansies from this 'Cool Wave® Mix' selection are hybrid varieties of Viola x wittrockiana from the latest generation, belonging to a series of very spreading plants with a dense habit, offering brightly coloured flowers for a very long period against all odds, even in winter and despite bad weather. These are biennial flowering plants in bloom from October to April, with a trailing habit that is particularly suited to hanging baskets, but also to use as ground cover in flowerbeds. In this selection, the flowers bloom in a palette of balanced and harmonious colours, illuminating the shortest days of the year.

Garden pansies, sometimes called giant Swiss pansies, are actually hybrids grouped in the Viola x wittrockiana group. They belong to the violet family and are most often grown as annuals or biennials, although they are theoretically perennial, but short-lived. The 'Cool Wave®' series, developed in the USA, brings together a collection of pansies that are unique in their spreading habit. They have excellent branching and quickly form a clump that can reach 20 cm (7.9 in) in height and 30 to 40 cm (15.7 in) in width.  Growth can be further enhanced with the use of fertiliser every 15 days. They demonstrate remarkable floriferousness from autumn to spring. The 'Cool Wave® Mix' selection has numerous small, crenate leaves, medium green in colour and elliptical in shape. Above the leaves bloom countless small flowers measuring 3 to 4 cm (1.6 in), solid or bicoloured, composed of five rounded petals that slightly overlap, sometimes with fine bristles. They come in bright yellow, pale yellow, blue, white or purple, depending on the variety.

When planted in summer, they will flourish from autumn onwards. Vigorous, these pansies cope well with unfavourable weather conditions and withstand periods of frost, even the most severe. You will then see them wilt and then revive as temperatures soften. They will keep you company throughout the winter, albeit more discreetly, and continue to bloom in spring.

If you love them in the garden you will greatly appreciate them in window boxes, to enjoy from inside while keeping warm. Plant alongside e.g. primroses, wallflowers, grape hyacinths, daisies, and even grasses such as Japanese sedge for a graphic effect with a contemporary feel. Combine them with heucheras and tulips. The blue of fescue grass also enhances them well. For a bohemian look, their colours blend well with orange and blue. 

The petals of pansies are edible, and their colours will bring a touch of originality to your salads and pastries. For this purpose, think of growing them as you would your vegetables - in the most natural way possible.

Please note that our young plants in mini-plugs are professional products intended for experienced gardeners: upon receipt, transplant them as soon as possible into pots, or directly into flower beds.