02/12/2026
While there is still snow on the ground in MN, I’m dreaming of warmer days (and ruffled blooms!) 🌸❄️ Starting my Viola wittrockiana ‘Flamenco’ seeds today!
Italian Viola wittrockiana Flamenco flowers (or Flamenco series pansies) are special for their unique, large, double and semi-double, heavily ruffled blooms, which are rarely found in traditional pansies.
These gorgeous ruffled blooms are also incredibly cold-hardy, making them perfect for our unpredictable springs.
I’m hoping to get a head start on that early spring color to feed the pollinators and fill bouquets with this unique fluffy pearled variety 💃.
🌱 Steps I’m taking:
• Darkness to Germinate: Violas prefer darkness to start, so I’m covering my tray with a recycled black plastic bag.
• Cooler Temps: They don’t need intense heat to germinate, 60-70°F is perfect.
• Move to Light: Once they sprout (10-14 days), they need bright light to prevent leggy seedlings.