The Story
Plant Bio
Viola odorata, the sweet violet, is a stemless, herbaceous perennial known for its fragrant, early spring flowers and heart-shaped leaves. It spreads by runners to form a groundcover.
'Comte de Brazza' is a treasured heirloom variety, prized for its highly fragrant, fully double, pure white flowers that bloom profusely in early spring.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
6 inches
Width
10 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Prefers moist, humid conditions
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Europe and Asia
Toxicity
Flowers and leaves are edible; rhizomes and seeds are mildly toxic and can cause nausea if ingested.
Bloom period
Early spring – Mid-spring
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage root growth.
- Plant in well-draining, fertile soil with partial shade for optimal growth.
- Water consistently, keeping soil evenly moist during active growing seasons.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks in spring and summer.
- Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring to rejuvenate plants.
Pro Tip
Use organic compost to enrich soil and promote healthy, vibrant plants.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
- Provide partial shade in hot climates for best foliage color
- Fertilize monthly during active growth seasons
- Mulch to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t expose to full, harsh sunlight which can scorch leaves
- Refrain from fertilizing in winter when growth slows
- Never allow plants to sit in waterlogged soil
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
'Comte de Brazza' Sweet Violet questions
What zones can 'Comte de Brazza' Sweet Violet grow in?
'Comte de Brazza' Sweet Violet is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is 'Comte de Brazza' Sweet Violet deer resistant?
Yes — 'Comte de Brazza' Sweet Violet is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does 'Comte de Brazza' Sweet Violet bloom?
'Comte de Brazza' Sweet Violet typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does 'Comte de Brazza' Sweet Violet need full sun?
'Comte de Brazza' Sweet Violet does best in part shade.
More Viola to compare
Common Blue Violet
Viola sororia
Bird's Foot Violet
Viola pedata
Painted Porcelain Pansy
Viola x wittrockiana 'Painted Porcelain'
Northern Lights Horned Violet
Viola cornuta 'Northern Lights'
Rebecca Horned Violet
Viola cornuta 'Rebecca'
Whopping Purple Whiskers Pansy
Viola tricolor 'Whopping Purple Whiskers'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow 'Comte de Brazza' Sweet Violet with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.