Viola Seeds,
Arkwright Ruby

55 ReviewsSKU: #FL555Min. seed count: 100
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Description

(Viola cornuta). A luxurious antique variety with 1- to 2-inch blooms of dazzling ruby color with gilded gold eyes and edges. The crimson and gold tones make for a classic addition to beds, borders, containers, and window boxes. This regal variety began appearing in American seed catalogs in the 1940s.

Growing Tips: Arkwright Ruby pansies perform best in fertile, well-drained soil with regular watering. Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Deadheading encourages longer bloom periods and helps the plant focus energy on flower production. Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. These pansies are excellent for borders, containers, and cool-season color in garden beds.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Viola cornuta
Life Cycle
Perennial in zones 5–9
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
10–14
Days to Maturity
75–95
Planting Depth
⅛ in.
Plant Spacing
6–8 in.
Ideal Temperature
55–65°F
Frost Hardy
Yes

When to Grow

Start seeds indoors 10–12 weeks before the last expected spring frost or sow outdoors in late summer to early fall for overwintering in mild climates. Transplants should be hardened off before planting. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds 1/8 inch deep in moist seed-starting mix. Keep soil between 60–65°F and consistently moist. Transplant seedlings once they develop strong root systems and after all danger of hard frost has passed.

How to Grow

Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. These pansies prefer cooler temperatures and will struggle in summer heat, though partial shade can help extend their bloom season. Deadhead regularly to promote fresh blooms. In mild climates, they may continue flowering into winter.

How to Save Seeds

  • Allow a few flowers to mature fully and develop seed pods
  • Wait until pods dry and begin to split, then collect
  • Remove seeds and let them air-dry thoroughly
  • Store in a cool, dry, dark location in a labeled paper envelope
  • Use fresh seeds within one to two years for best viability

FAQ

Can Arkwright Ruby pansy seeds be winter sown?

Yes, winter sowing is a great option in many climates. Sow in covered containers outdoors in late winter to allow natural cold stratification and promote strong spring germination.

How long will Arkwright Ruby pansies bloom?

With proper care and deadheading, these pansies can bloom from early spring until early summer or resume flowering again in the fall in cooler climates.

Are Arkwright Ruby pansies good for containers?

Absolutely. Their compact size and rich color make them ideal for pots, window boxes, and mixed containers, especially when combined with other cool-season plants.

Browse our full range of pansy and viola seeds.

Customer reviews

5 / 5 5 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Velvet ruby blooms: Dark red velvet petals with bright yellow accents.

  • Blooms for months: Prolific once established; still blooming after a year.

  • Happy in pots: Does best in containers; low maintenance once going.

  • Growing tips: Slow, tricky start; chill seeds and sow in the dark.

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