The sweet violet, Viola odorata, may be a diminutive flower, but its small, slightly asymmetrical, pansy-like flowers are highly fragrant. They open in early spring before most plants have even though

Modest, alluring and versatile, Viola odorata, or sweet violet, is a small, hardy, herbaceous perennial that tumbles and scrambles close to the ground, forming dense clumps of dainty, heart-shaped, gr

As well as being a visual feast, a garden can become a fragrant haven, says Heloise Brooke, head gardener at the National Trust’s Calke Abbey in Derbyshire. Here, she advises on plants to include for year-round perfume promise

Lavender is one of those plants that seems to capture summer in a single scent, and it’s surprisingly easy to grow if you give it the conditions it loves. Success with these beautiful little flowers i

Stephanie Hafferty lists her favourite edible blooms and shares her top tips for using them

Now spring is in sight, gorgeous plants herald a new season