Viola - Penny Black

Almost-black petals and a tiny yellow eye give ‘Penny Black’ the look of miniature velvet flowers. A hint of purple appears when the light catches the petals, so the color feels rich rather than flat. This compact Penny™ series viola brings that unusual contrast right to the front of a planting, where its small flowers and fresh green foliage can be seen up close.

The breeder lists a mounded habit about 4–6 inches tall and wide, a convenient size for edging, mixed containers, and hanging baskets. Rounded, lightly scalloped leaves make a tidy background for the dark blooms, which are especially effective beside pale flowers or silver foliage. Fragrant flowers shine in cool spring and autumn weather; flowering may continue longer where summers stay mild. Explore our perennial violas for other small-scale companions with a similarly intimate charm.

Grow in sun to part sun in fertile, well-drained soil, keeping the roots evenly moist without waterlogging. Afternoon shade helps where spring quickly turns hot. Remove spent flowers to encourage more buds and keep the little mound neat. Although a short-lived perennial, listed for USDA Zones 4–9, ‘Penny Black’ is often enjoyed as seasonal bedding: sustained summer heat can slow flowering or finish the display. Plan its season around your local temperatures rather than expecting year-round bloom.