What Are the Different Types of Pansy Plant

Pansies are beautiful and vibrant flowers that are popular among gardeners and flower enthusiasts. With their cheerful colors and delicate petals, they can instantly brighten up any garden or flower bed. But did you know that there are different types of pansy plants? In this article, we will explore the various varieties of pansies and discover their unique characteristics.

1. Viola Tricolor

Viola tricolor, also known as wild pansy, is one of the oldest cultivated pansy varieties. This type of pansy is native to Europe and is characterized by its tri-colored flowers. The petals are usually purple or blue with yellow and white markings in the center. Viola tricolor has a compact growth habit and is perfect for borders, rock gardens, or containers.

2. Viola Wittrockiana

Viola wittrockiana, commonly known as garden pansy, is the most popular variety among pansies. It is highly cultivated and bred for its large flowers and wide range of colors. Garden pansies come in various shades of purple, yellow, orange, red, white, and even black. They have a velvety texture and a distinctive dark blotch in the center of each petal. These pansies are versatile and can be grown in beds, borders, hanging baskets, or containers.

3. Viola Cornuta

Viola cornuta, also called horned pansy or tufted pansy, is a hardy perennial variety native to Europe. It gets its name from the small “horns” or spurs on the back of its petals. The flowers of Viola cornuta are usually smaller compared to other pansies but are abundant and long-lasting. They come in various colors such as purple, lavender, yellow, white, and blue. This variety is ideal for rock gardens, borders, or as ground cover.

4. Viola X Wittrockiana Cool Wave

Cool Wave is a relatively new series of pansies that are known for their spreading growth habit. They are excellent for hanging baskets, window boxes, or as ground cover. Cool Wave pansies produce an abundance of small flowers in vibrant colors. They are more tolerant of heat and can withstand colder temperatures, making them suitable for both spring and fall planting.

5. Viola X Wittrockiana Delta

Delta pansies are a series of large-flowered pansies that come in an array of colors and patterns. They have a compact growth habit and produce flowers with smooth petals and a clear face. Delta pansies are great for adding a splash of color to beds, borders, or containers. They are also known for their excellent weather resistance and ability to bloom throughout the season.

6. Viola X Wittrockiana Fama

Fama pansies are another series of large-flowered pansies that are highly regarded for their outstanding performance in the garden. They produce flowers with velvety petals and vibrant colors, including unique bicolor combinations. Fama pansies have a compact growth habit and are perfect for edging, mass plantings, or as focal points in the garden.

7. Viola X Wittrockiana Matrix

Matrix pansies are a popular choice among gardeners due to their early blooming nature and uniform growth habit. They produce an abundance of medium-sized flowers in a wide range of colors. Matrix pansies are great for adding color to borders, containers, or window boxes. They are also known for their excellent heat tolerance and ability to withstand adverse weather conditions.

8. Viola X Wittrockiana Swiss Giants

Swiss Giants is a series of pansies that are well-known for their large flowers and sturdy stems. They produce flowers with smooth petals and a clear face, often in bold and vibrant colors. Swiss Giants pansies are perfect for creating focal points in the garden or adding height to flower beds. They are also great for cutting and using in floral arrangements.

In conclusion, pansies are not just a single type of flower but a diverse group with various characteristics and growth habits. From the classic garden pansies to the wild and hardy varieties, there is a pansy for every garden and gardener’s preference. Whether you prefer compact or spreading growth habits, large or small flowers, or a specific color palette, there is a pansy variety that will suit your needs. So why not add some pansies to your garden and enjoy their beauty all season long?