Viola

• Common Name: Viola
• Latin Name: Viola spp.
• Family Name: Violaceae

Although the Viola and the Pansy were originally distinct species within the Violaceae family, years of cross-breeding has meant that they are now genetically the same, and so the names are interchangeable.  Although most Violas and Pansies are grown as garden plants, Viola tricolor (Heartsease, Johnny Jump Up) is a delightful wild flower.  The leaves and flowers of all Violas and Pansies are fine to feed to tortoises, although you should never feed leaves and flowers from plants you have just bought from a garden centre or florist, as they could be contaminated with insecticides - it is best to wait for new growth to feed.  See Pansy and Violet.