Critics and fans highlight this episode as a bittersweet milestone for the central "Jisbon" (Jane and Lisbon) relationship.

: The review on Reddit points out that Jane’s story about the artist who could only express love through painting mirrors his own inability to be upfront with Lisbon. He "paints" his love through the elaborate cons he creates for her.

: Reviewers generally agree that "Violets" is a "beautifully written" episode that uses its episodic mystery to advance the show's most important character arc. The Mentalist "Violets" Review (Season 6 episode 16)

: One of the most poignant moments discussed by reviewers is the final scene where Jane throws aside his character's scarf and sits alone in the dark, realizing he might have waited too long to make his move. Critical Reception