King Henry Viola Seeds | Purple Flowers

Give cool-season planters a rich splash of color with King Henry viola. Deep velvety purple blooms have a golden eye and delicate whisker markings, making a striking partner for spring bulbs or a lovely low edging around garden beds. Tuck plants into window boxes and containers for a close-up view of the flowers.

Plant details

• Botanical name: Viola cornuta 'King Henry'
• Flower color: Deep purple with a golden eye and whisker markings
• Height: Approximately 6–8 inches
• Light: Full sun to partial shade
• Spacing: Approximately 8 inches
• Season: Best in cool weather; spring and fall blooms
• Available sizes: 25, 100, 400, or 1,000 seeds

Starting seeds

Start indoors in late winter for spring planting, or in summer for a fall display. Sow into seed-starting mix and cover very thinly, no more than the thickness of the seed. Keep the mix moist; the original listing gives an average germination time of 14–21 days at around 68°F. Seeds can also be sown outdoors in early spring or late summer where conditions allow.

Growing and display

Plant in well-drained soil in sun to partial shade. King Henry can be grown as a cool-season annual or a perennial where conditions suit it; winter survival varies by climate and exposure. Try the purple flowers alongside daffodils, around shrubs, or spilling over a patio container for a jewel-toned spring scene.