NEN Gallery

Dame's Violet is a tallish plant with fragrant lilac or white flowers. A herbaceous plant belonging to the natural order Cruciferae, and closely allied to the wallflower and stock. It has an erect stout leafy stem 2 to 3 ft. high, with irregularly toothed shortstalked leaves. The white or lilac flowers are quite large, 4 inches across, and are scented in the evening. It flowers from late spring to the end of summer. It is found on roadsides, hedge-banks and in grassy places. It was introduced to Britain in the 14th century and has spread and gained naturalised status. The flowers seem to glow in the half-light, hence it is popular with gardeners and is often found as a garden escape. It is also known as Sweet Rocket. It will self sow and naturalise happily in poorer soils. Picture taken near Ampthill Bedfordshire 19th April 2006.