Of all of the early emerging spring flowers, few show up with more vigor, pizazz and bursts of color than the cool weather loving, long blooming pansy (Viola x Wittrockiana).

Pansies are cultivars of the viola.The pansy and viola greatly resemble each other. They differ in size and petal formation. Both flowers have five petals. Violas are smaller (sometimes called johnny jump ups) and have three petals facing upward, two down. The pansy has four petals that face up and one petal down. Both the pansy and viola thrive in the cool weather of early spring (and late fall). Their names are often used interchangeably.

Both the pansy and viola were popular favorites in the cooler European countries where they grew prolifically. The pleasantly spicy scented flower was grown for its medicinal value as well.

Pansies arrived in North America in the 1800s (according to the Missouri State University Extension). They flourished in the states, were an immediate hit and never lost their appeal with gardeners.

Their colors range the entire spectrum of the rainbow. They present in shades of yellow, purple, orange, blue, black, white and reds. Many of the flower petals display a unique marking that resembles a smiling face, giving the flower a happy appearance and personality, yet some are without markings.

Pansies and violas thrive in the damp cool earth of early spring.

They are easy care. They don’t like dry soil. They bask in the bright but cool spring morning light but don’t like the afternoon warmer sun. Plant these lovelies in the shade to prolong the flowering and growth as warmer spring weather advances. Deadheading is important and promotes continuous blooms and a longer lifespan.

These early cold weather bloomers are lucky enough to avoid many of the pests that may plague later blooming spring flowers. As the season and warmer weather advances, they become more susceptible to aphids and spider mites.

Baskets and flats of flowering pansies are now being sold in nurseries and home centers near you. Pick some up to bring home and plant in containers. They are guaranteed to perk up and spruce up outdoor porches and patios. Pansies can also be planted in the ground in the fall and with appropriate mulching and care will reappear in early spring.

It is hard ignore the colorful and cute little faces of the pansy. Plant some today, and smile along with them.

Learn more about pansies at http://go.osu.edu/pansies.