The violet is a small but very resilient perennial that is inherently one of the first heralds of spring. Its natural habitat is found in bright deciduous forests and groves, which makes it an ideal plant for shady and semi-shady corners of the garden. Where other species struggle, violets create dense low carpets that beautifully scent the space in spring. Besides the well-known fragrant species, you will also find types with darker, purple-colored leaves here. These look interesting even when the plant is not in bloom. Violets are fully frost-hardy and work great as underplanting for trees or shrubs, where they protect the soil from drying out. Caring for them takes almost no time at all. Once they take root in a suitable spot, they spread easily and delight you with a flood of tiny flowers year after year.

Viola odorata