Johnny jump up - Viola tricolor (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Johnny jump up

Also known as: Heartsease, Tickle-my-fancy

The johnny jump up resembles a small pansy. The flowers are edible and can be consumed in salads, drinks, or used as a garnish, though they're best eaten only in small amounts. Ancient Greek legends told that the goddess Aphrodite colored the previously white flowers purple to make her son, Eros, less attracted to them.

Scientific classification

Species

Johnny jump up (Viola tricolor)

Nances, spurges, willows and allies

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Annual, Perennial, Biennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Early summer, Winter

Bloom Time

Summer, Early fall

Harvest Time

10 cm to 40 cm

Plant Height

10 cm to 30 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

1.5 cm to 6 cm

Flower Size

Brown

Fruit Color

Yellow, Purple, White, Cream, Blue, Lavender

Flower Color

Green, Yellow, Purple, Cream

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen, Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Johnny jump up

Distribution of Johnny jump up

Distribution Map

Johnny jump up has a native range across Europe and into Central Asia, where it grows in meadows, fields, and wastelands. This popular garden ornamental has had a widespread introduction to other regions of the world, including most of North and South America and a sizeable part of Asia. It is listed as invasive in Alaska.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Cultivated and waste ground, short grassland

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Economic Value

Aromatic oils can be extracted from heartsease to produce essential oil.

Garden Use

Johnny jump up is a jolly garden ornamental bringing an array of vibrant colors to garden borders and flower beds. This versatile plant grows well in containers, as well as in rock gardens, cottage gardens, and more. It is quite low-maintenance and a great plant for beginners.

Symbolism

Meditation, happiness, please miss me, memory, spirituality

Interesting Facts

Johnny jump up, or Viola tricolor, is actually the original wild pansy. It was hybridized to create the garden pansies (Viola tricolor var. hortensis) we know today. Viola tricolor can be confused with Viola arvensis, the field pansy, which is less attractive and rarely cultivated.

Name Story

Johnny jump up: The name, Johnny jump up applies to any kind of pansy. Its origin is no longer traceable, but it is used to describe rapid growth.

Heart's ease: This particular species has beautiful and colorful flowers featured with two color schemed and three color schemed. The ones with two color scheme are matched with yellow and purple while the ones with three color schemed are matched with yellow, white and purple. The combination of gradual change in colors and tiny flower can ease a person's mind. Therefore, it is given the a delicate name, Heart's ease.

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Quickly Identify Johnny jump up

Tricolored flowers with purple stripes

Explosive 3-valved capsules for fruit dispersal

Glabrous, heart-shaped leaves with clear vein patterns

Slender, hairless stem branching from base

Variable stature ranging 3-10 inches (7.5-25 cm) in height

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Care Guide for Johnny jump up

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Johnny jump up thrives in temperate regions, preferring well-drained soils and consistent moisture. It tolerates moderate drought but appreciates regular watering, ideally twice a week. While it benefits from natural rainfall outdoors, supplemental irrigation is necessary during dry spells, especially in containers.

Fertilize: Fertilize johnny jump up every 4-6 weeks during the growing season with a high phosphorus fertilizer for blooms. Use a diluted balanced fertilizer to avoid burn. In winter, reduce feeding to every 8-10 weeks. Water thoroughly after fertilizing to aid nutrient absorption and monitor plant response.

Pruning: Johnny jump up features vibrant tri-colored flowers. Prune in early to late spring to foster growth and extend blooming. Deadheading and removing damaged parts enhance air circulation and maintain shape. Use clean tools to reduce stress. A regular pruning schedule is vital for best results.

Propagation: With its vibrant flowers, johnny jump up enhances any garden. Effective propagation involves taking healthy stem cuttings and planting them in a moist, well-draining medium. Covering with a plastic bag promotes root growth. Once established, johnny jump up adapts well to various garden settings.

Repotting: Johnny jump up requires excellent drainage when planted in pots to thrive properly.

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Images of Johnny jump up

Distribution of Johnny jump up

Culture

Quickly Identify Johnny jump up

Care Guide for Johnny jump up

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