NEN Gallery

Dame's Violet is a tallish plant with fragrant lilac or white flowers. It is an 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 Elstow, Bedfordshire 7th May 2006.