Species
2 other cultivars
The Story
Plant Bio
Molly Sanderson is a charming small violet with attractive flowers and heart-shaped leaves that thrive in cooler weather.
This cultivar is known for its unique purple flowers that have a richer hue compared to other similar Viola species.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
8 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Europe and Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Bloom period
Early spring – Late spring
In flower about 3 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 root in 4-6 weeks.
- Choose a location with partial shade to prevent leaf scorch.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season.
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.
- Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring or fall.
Pro Tip
Use rich, well-drained soil and keep soil consistently moist for vibrant blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
- Deadhead flowers to promote prolonged blooming
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced plant food
- Provide partial shade in hot climates
Don't
- Avoid waterlogging soil to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t expose plants to full, harsh sunlight in summer
- Refrain from over-fertilizing, which can cause lush foliage with fewer flowers
- Don’t forget to remove dead or diseased foliage
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Plant |
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
Molly Sanderson Violet questions
What zones can Molly Sanderson Violet grow in?
Molly Sanderson Violet is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Molly Sanderson Violet deer resistant?
Yes — Molly Sanderson Violet is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Molly Sanderson Violet bloom?
Molly Sanderson Violet typically blooms in early spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Molly Sanderson Violet need full sun?
Molly Sanderson 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 Molly Sanderson 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.