Johnny Jump-up seeds ( Viola Tricolor) edible flowers !

Viola tricolor — the beloved Johnny Jump-Up — is one of the most charming small wildflowers in the cottage garden tradition. Native to the mountains of Spain and France, these cheerful tri-colored blooms of purple, yellow, and white have graced gardens for centuries and are still admired for their bright little faces and easy self-sowing habit. Also known as Wild Pansy and Heartsease, they have a long history as both an ornamental and medicinal herb. Flowers are edible and make delightful, colorful garnishes. Delicately fragrant. Approx. 7,000 seeds per ¼ oz; approx. 28,000 seeds per oz.

Plant Highlights

• Tri-colored blooms — purple, yellow, and white — resembling miniature pansies
• Edible flowers; delicate fragrance; charming cut flower accent
• Cool-season performer: blooms spring and fall; self-sows year after year
• Grows in 3–6-inch clumps; evergreen foliage in some areas
• Heirloom wildflower; native to Spain and France; centuries of garden history
• Not invasive — just delightful

Growing Guide

Sowing: Direct-sow in early spring or fall. Seeds are tiny — cover with no more than 1/16 inch of soil. Thin to 6 inches apart. Johnny Jump-Ups prefer moist, rich soil but are adaptable to a wide range of soil types.

Light: Adaptable — full sun to full shade depending on climate zone. Sunny spots may be too hot in southern climates; shady spots may be too cold in northern zones.

Seasonal care: Plants fade during summer heat but return with a fresh flush of blooms in fall. Trim back in summer heat to encourage autumn rebloom.

Self-sowing: Once established, plants self-sow freely and cheerfully without becoming invasive. Expect surprise blooms each spring in the shade of larger plants.

Planting Specs

• Type: Biennial (self-sowing)
• USDA Zones: 5–9
• Height: 8–10 inches
• Bloom season: Spring and fall (fades in summer heat)
• Bloom color: Purple, yellow, and white — tri-colored
• Light: Full sun to full shade (zone-dependent)
• Soil: Average garden soil, pH 5.8–7.2
• Germ temp: 65–70°F | Avg. germ time: 7–21 days
• Planting depth: Cover lightly with peat moss (no more than 1/16 inch)
• Spacing: 9–12 inches