Viola × wittrockiana (Viola × wittrockiana)

The garden pansy, scientifically known as Viola × wittrockiana, is a vibrant and large-flowered hybrid plant frequently grown for its striking appearance as a garden flower. It's origins are traced back to several species in the Melanium section of the Viola genus, with a notable influence from V. tricolor, or 'heartsease', a wildflower popular in Europe and western Asia. It's variation is sometimes labeled as V. tricolor var. hortensis, though the validity of this name is questionable. For instance, V. tricolor var. hortensis Groenland & Rümpler is an alternative name for Viola × wittrockiana, yet V. tricolor var. hortensis DC. references a horticultural variation of wild pansy (V. tricolor sans interspecific hybridization) that was documented in Flora Danica in 1777, predating Viola × wittrockiana. The chromosomal count for Viola × wittrockiana is typically around 44–52, with majority of variations standing at 2n = 48. The flower itself measures 5 to 8 centimetres in diameter, with a bloom consisting of two upper and side petals each, and a single petal at the bottom, somewhat bearded at the center. Common petal colors range from white or yellow to purple and blue shades. The plant can grow up to 23 cm tall, favoring sunny conditions to varying extents and soils with good drainage.