~Australian Violet~

 Forms a mat of small, kidney shaped, dark green leaves.  Nice groundcover for woodland gardens, near ponds or streams and also in hanging baskets.

Bloom: Purple flowers with white tips from spring through summer.

Habit: 2-4" tall and 48" wide. 

Exposure: Filtered sun to partial shade.

Site: Plant in moist, well drained soil.

Spreading rate:  Medium.  Spreads by underground runners. 

Fertilizing: Feed in early spring and again lightly in early fall.  Use a balanced fertilizer, preferably one containing a slow release nitrogen source.  Always follow the manufacturer's label recommendations when making any applications of fertilizer.  Be sure to rinse the fertilizer off the foliage.

Watering:  Regular summer water should be provided the first couple of years to ensure good plant establishment and to promote maximum growth.  After that water as needed. 

Pruning:  Prune as you wish to control height and shape.   

Foot traffic:  Tolerates foot traffic, growing quickly to cover worn areas.

Hardiness:  20° to 30° F.  Tender perennial goes dormant below 30°F but is hardy to 20°F.