Question
man years ago i was given a small nosegay of cut violets, not a violet plant but
actual violets cut. where do i get one? and is it called something different than
violets, they were small and deep purple/blue?

Answer
Hi Joanne:

I'm not sure if you are talking about a plant or a nosegay. The nosegay you would probably have to ask a florist about.

The plant you can get at a greenhouse or garden center or if you know anyone who has a flower garden, particularly a shade garden they would probably give you some. I'll tell you about this plant.

Yes they are called violets or sometimes sweet violets. They are related to pansies. The plant is about 10 inches tall. They prefer to be grown in the shade and bloom in the spring(May to June) and only for a few weeks. The flowers come in various colors-- including your blue and a white--and grow out of a cluster of heart shaped leaves.

Violets are perennials, who drop their seeds which grow easily so it will come back and also grow new plants. Don't worry about the spread though because they are very easy to dig out and control. This is why I said any gardener who has them would be willing to give you some.

Hope this helps                                 Myrna