Julie Thompson-Adolf, an experienced writer and Master Gardener with three decades of organic gardening, seed starting, heirloom growing and sustainable farming expertise, has reviewed the following content. Pansies are a great option for vibrant and fast-growing flowers, perfect for containers or garden beds during early and late seasons. Their colorful petals are usually heart-shaped, with face-like markings at the center, making them an eye-catching addition to any garden. These flowers are bred to withstand cold weather but not so much heat.
Pansies are considered short-season perennials, but mostly grown as annuals unless you live in mild-winter areas where they can be biennials. They complement spring-flowering bulbs in the garden, blooming as the bulb foliage starts to fade. Pansies don’t grow very tall, and if they do, they tend to flop or cascade slightly. They belong to the violaceae family, with the botanical name Viola x Wittrockiana. These flowers thrive best in well-draining soil, with full or partial sun exposure and acidic soil pH. They bloom during spring, summer, and fall, in various colors such as white, yellow, purple, blue, red, and pink. Pansies are native to Europe and Asia, growing in hardiness zones 7-11 (USDA).