WILD THOUGHT

The wild pansy flower, or Viola tricolor, is a small wildflower native to Europe and western Asia, belonging to the Violaceae family. Here is a look at its history and importance through the centuries:

Origin and name: Viola tricolor is also known by several other names, including wild pansy, tricolor violet, and Trinity herb. Its Latin name, Viola tricolor, refers to the three distinct colors often found in its flowers: purple, yellow, and white.

Symbolism and Folklore: The wild pansy has long been associated with various symbols and beliefs. In European folk tradition, it was often seen as a symbol of humility, modesty, and loving thoughts. It was sometimes used to express affectionate feelings or to bring good luck.

Herbal Use: Wild pansy has been used in traditional herbalism for its medicinal properties. It was thought to have beneficial effects on the skin, particularly in soothing minor irritations and skin inflammations.

Culinary Use: Although less common, wild pansy has been used for culinary purposes in some regions. Its delicate flowers can be used to decorate dishes or carefully added to salads to add a splash of color and a slight herbaceous flavor.

Horticulture: In addition to its symbolic and medicinal uses, wild pansy is also valued as an ornamental plant in gardens. Its ability to grow easily in varied environments and its abundant flowering make it a popular choice for borders, rockeries and containers.

Conservation and ecological importance: Wild pansy, like many wild plants, plays a crucial role in ecosystems as a food source for pollinating insects and small creatures. Its conservation is therefore important to maintain biodiversity in natural areas.

In summary, the wild pansy flower has a rich cultural and symbolic history, in addition to its practical uses in herbalism and gardening. It continues to be valued for its delicate beauty and traditional meaning throughout the world.

Wild pansy (Viola tricolor) has several traditional medicinal properties that have been recognized and used for centuries. Here are some of its main medicinal properties:

Soothing for the skin:

• Wild pansy is widely used in herbal medicine for its emollient and anti-inflammatory properties. It is often used to soothe skin irritations, rashes, eczema, and dry skin. When applied topically, it can help reduce itching and promote healing of minor wounds.

Diuretic:

• The herb is also known for its mild diuretic effects, meaning it can slightly increase urine production. This can be beneficial in supporting kidney function and helping to remove toxins from the body.

Depurative:

• Wild pansy is sometimes used as a depurative, meaning it helps purify the blood and eliminate toxins accumulated in the body. This makes it a useful plant in detoxification treatments.

Expectorant:

• In herbal medicine, wild pansy is used for its expectorant properties, helping to thin bronchial secretions and facilitate their expulsion. It can be beneficial for relieving coughs and minor respiratory ailments.

Anti-inflammatory:

• Compounds found in wild pansy, such as flavonoids and saponins, have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in a variety of conditions, including skin conditions and respiratory problems.

Emollient properties:

• Wild pansy extracts are sometimes used for their ability to soften and moisturize the skin, particularly in cosmetic products and ointments intended to treat dermatological problems.

It is important to note that although wild pansy is widely considered a gentle and safe medicinal herb, it is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional before using it, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication, or have a sensitivity to plants in the Violaceae family.

Traditionally, wild pansy (Viola tricolor) is not widely used in cooking, mainly due to its more medicinal and ornamental applications. However, there are a few minor traditional uses that I can mention:

• Edible Decoration: The delicate flowers of the wild pansy can be used as an edible decoration in dishes. They provide a bright pop of color and can be arranged on desserts, fruit salads or cold dishes to add a pleasant floral aesthetic.
• Infusion: Wild pansy flowers and leaves can be used to prepare a light infusion. Pour hot water over a few fresh or dried flowers and let it steep for a few minutes. This infusion can be consumed hot or cold, depending on preference.
• Salads: Although less common, some wild plant enthusiasts occasionally use young wild pansy leaves in salads. The leaves should be harvested before flowering to avoid excessive bitterness.
• Syrups and Jams: In some areas, wild pansy flowers can be used to make syrups or jams. The flowers are infused in sugar or water to create a flavored syrup or to flavor fruit jams.
• Pastries: Wild pansy flowers can be used to decorate or flavor certain pastries, such as cupcakes, cookies or cakes. They not only add an aesthetic touch but also a subtle, floral fragrance.

It is important to note that the use of wild pansy in cooking should be limited and cautious due to its medicinal profile and the presence of bioactive compounds.

In summary, although wild pansy is primarily used for its medicinal and aesthetic qualities, it can be creatively explored in cooking to add a floral and natural touch to various dishes and drinks.

It will be necessary:

• Cold stratification:
• Prepare the seeds: Clean them and, if necessary, soak them for a few hours.
• Mix: Mix the seeds with a moist substrate (sand or vermiculite).
• Condition: Put everything in an airtight bag.
• Refrigerate: Place bag in refrigerator for 4 to 12 weeks.
• Check: Make sure the substrate remains slightly moist.
• Sow: After the stratification period, sow the seeds in prepared soil.

That's all! It helps the seeds germinate.

Caution: seed dust, mix sand with the seeds in a salt shaker or in the small plastic bag in your envelope, to have a clump.

Our seeds are vigorous, open-pollinated and adapted to the Quebec climate.

• Species: Viola tricolor
• Sowing: Early March indoors, early April under cover outdoors, or sow broadcast on the surface to be cultivated outdoors in spring
• Seeds: 10-15 seeds per pot, final transplanting into an outdoor pot or soil around mid-May
• Sowing depth: 0.5 cm
• Germination time: 10-15 days
• Soil: Poor, humus-rich, loose and drained
• Location: Sun and tolerates shade and cold very well
• Spacing between plants: 12-15cm
• Height at maturity: 18-20cm
• Maturity: 55-60 days | Perennial
• Seed per envelope: +/- 100

Our seeds are guaranteed for the year of purchase.