wild pansy
Plant Whisper
With their gradient of violet, yellow, and white with black stripes, the edible flowers of the wild pansy decorate salads and cakes. Fourteen different species of caterpillars also enjoy feeding on the wild pansy. It takes two years for the flowers to produce seeds, from which a new generation emerges.
Botanical Facts
prefers slightly moist soil
Extremely frost-resistant and winter-hardy down to -25 to -34 degrees
Europe, Western Asia
April to September, sometimes even into October
sunny to partially shaded locations
Rocky slopes, meadows, fields
Healing Properties
In European folk medicine, the wild pansy has been considered a versatile medicinal plant since the 16th century, used primarily for skin problems as well as kidney and urinary tract ailments. Today it is classified as a traditional herbal medicinal product for skin diseases, acne, cradle cap, and other conditions.
Features
10 - 40 cm
❀ (flowers), 🌿 (herb)
⚕ (Medicinal plant)
An important plant for bees and insects: Honeybees in particular, but also some wild bees, use its flowers. It also serves as a nectar source for many butterflies, as well as a plant for egg-laying and caterpillar food, including several endangered species.
The genus Viola comprises around 400 species and is divided into numerous sections and subsections. The garden pansy is very common. However, commercially available plants from hardware stores and garden centers often do not correspond to the natural wild forms, as they are usually cultivated and heavily fertilized varieties.
Endangerment Level
V - Near Threatened
All information about herbs has been carefully compiled but does not claim to be complete. None of the information provided constitutes medical advice.
GOLDEN RULE for EVERYTHING: Eat only what you know! The rule applies: a handful of wild plants per person and day may be collected on public land. Use only washed plant parts that you can identify clearly – when in doubt, please refrain from using them.
TIP: One advantage of buying over-the-counter medicines from a pharmacy or specialist retailer is the expert advice on your symptoms.
