Flower Library
Violets
Viola odorata · Violaceae
Violets are the most delicate spring flowers — small, fragrant, fleeting. As cut flowers rare in large bouquets, more as nostalgic small bunches in glass vials or small table vases.
- Season
- March – April – May
- Vase life
- 3–6 days
- Latin name
- Viola odorata
- Colors
- Purple, White, Cream-yellow
Season March to May. Also wild in German forests — on the Rhine-side path in April, you'll find them.
Violet scent is legendary — perfumers have prized it for centuries. The bloom itself 'disappears' to the nose: after a short time you no longer perceive the scent, though it's still there.
In gift context more as a sweet statement (small bunch in a bottle, with ribbon) than a bouquet for the whole apartment.
Is Violets toxic to children and pets?
- Children
- Non-toxic
- Cats
- Non-toxic
- Dogs
- Non-toxic
True sweet violet (Viola odorata) is non-toxic to cats and dogs — flowers and leaves are edible and used in cooking. Very large amounts may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation. The African violet (Saintpaulia) is botanically not a violet but is likewise non-toxic.
Overview: toxic & non-toxic plants for cats, dogs and children
Care
- 01Cut at an angle, into water immediately.
- 02Water shallow, change every 1–2 days.
- 03Keep very cool — violets dislike warmth.
- 04Vase life short (3–6 days), no patience required.
Frequently asked
- Are violets still in florist trade today?
- Rarely — many florists carry them only seasonally March–April. Common in gardens, declining in commercial cut trade.
- Do violets really smell so?
- Yes — sweet, slightly powdery, very fine. The phenomenon of not smelling them after a moment is due to ionones that 'block' the nose.
- How long do violets last in a vase?
- Only about 3 to 6 days. Shallow water, a fresh cut daily and a very cool spot matter most — warmth noticeably shortens the life of these delicate blooms.
- Are violets toxic to cats or dogs?
- No — true sweet violet (Viola odorata) is considered non-toxic to cats and dogs; the flowers are even edible and used candied. As with any plant material, larger amounts may cause mild stomach upset. Not to be confused with the African violet (Saintpaulia), which is not a true violet.