How to Grow Native Violet in New Zealand
A delicate spreading groundcover with edible white-and-purple flowers, sold in NZ as Australian violet (Viola hederacea). Perfect for shaded borders, between pavers and under trees, where it flowers for much of the year in mild gardens.
When to plant native violet in New Zealand
Timing is everything in New Zealand, where the warm north and the cooler south are weeks apart. Sow or plant in these months for your region:
| Region | When to sow or plant |
|---|---|
| Northland | January, February, March, April, May, August, September, October, November, December |
| Auckland | January, February, March, April, May, August, September, October, November, December |
| Waikato & BoP | January, February, March, April, May, August, September, October, November, December |
| Wellington | January, February, March, April, May, August, September, October, November, December |
| Nelson & Marlborough | January, February, March, April, May, August, September, October, November, December |
| Canterbury | January, February, March, April, May, August, September, October, November, December |
| Otago & Southland | January, February, March, April, May, August, September, October, November, December |
| Central Otago | January, February, March, April, May, August, September, October, November, December |
Best native violet varieties for NZ
- Australian Violet (Viola hederacea) — Spreading groundcover with small white-and-purple flowers and edible blooms. Thrives in shade and between pavers. (The Plant Company, Kahikatea Farm)
How to grow native violet
- Space plants about 20cm apart.
- Sow seed around 0.5cm deep.
- Position: shade.
- Ready to harvest in roughly 90 days.
- Seeds germinate in about 21 days.
Companion planting
Grow native violet near: Native plants, Ferns.
Pests and problems
Watch for: Slugs, Snails. See our NZ pest and disease guide for organic control.
For a calendar tuned to your exact region, see the New Zealand planting guides or the Native Violet plant page.
FAQ
When is the best time to plant native violet in New Zealand?
In the warm north (Auckland, Northland) sow in January, February, March, April, May, August, September, October, November, December. Cooler regions plant a little later. Check the table above for your region.
Where can I buy native violet seeds or plants in NZ?
Try The Plant Company, Kahikatea Farm.