The pansy (Viola wittrockiana) is a widely recognized and popular cultivated flower, known for its distinctive appearance in garden beds and containers. This plant is a hybrid, developed through the cross-breeding of several species within the Viola genus, including the European wild pansy, Viola tricolor. Its vibrant colors and relatively large, flat blooms offer a cheerful visual display.
The Distinctive Structure of the Pansy Bloom
The pansy flower is characterized by its large size, typically measuring two to four inches across, which is substantial for a member of the Viola family. Each pansy bloom consists of five velvety petals arranged in a specific, bilaterally symmetrical pattern. This arrangement features four petals pointing upward and one large, downward-pointing petal.
The two uppermost petals usually overlap slightly, and the two side petals sit adjacent to them, contributing to the flower’s generally rounded shape. The single bottom petal is often the largest and incorporates a small, hidden spur at its base. This spur is a nectar-producing structure, common in violets.
Understanding Pansy Color Patterns
The visual appeal of the pansy depends on its color diversity, ranging from pure white, yellow, and orange to deep shades of purple, maroon, and nearly black. Pansies are categorized into two main groups based on the presence of a central marking. The first type is the “clear” pansy, which displays a solid color across all five petals without any darker markings.
The second, and most recognizable, type is the “faced” or “blotched” pansy, defined by a dark, contrasting blotch at the flower’s center. This central marking is often velvety and creates an appearance resembling a small human face, which is the source of the common name. The blotch contrasts sharply with the lighter base color of the outer petals.
Pansy vs. Viola: Key Physical Differences
Pansies and violas are often confused since the garden pansy is classified within the Viola genus. The primary difference is bloom size; pansy flowers are significantly larger, often reaching four inches in diameter, while true violas have much smaller blooms. The pansy’s petals typically overlap to create a compact, rounder appearance.
The petal arrangement provides a reliable means of identification. The pansy has four petals extending upward and one pointing down. In contrast, many true violas exhibit an arrangement of two petals up and three pointing down. While the pansy is known for its large central “face” blotch, violas generally lack this heavy marking, instead displaying smaller, less defined eyes or simple lines radiating from the center.