Viola pedata

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Common Name: Birdsfoot Violet

Full to part sun, moderately dry to dry moisture level, lean sandy soil, strongly acid to moderately acid pH.  6-8 inches height, blooms in early spring, violet or purple flowers, will self-seed.

Germination Code:  M or C(60), D.   Difficult from seed.

Native Region: Statewide except absent on western boundary of Tennessee

Because it requires lean soil and good drainage, this plant never becomes a pest.  Highly drought tolerant.  Can be difficult to successfully establish in a garden.  Needs to be kept free of weeds and other aggressive plants so it is not crowded out.  Short-lived.  Blossoms make good candy, jam, jelly, syrup and wine.  Edible leaves are high in Vitamin A and C.  Attracts bees and butterflies.

Birdsfoot Violet - Viola pedata 3
Photo Courtesy of Prairie Moon Nursery http://www.prairiemoon.com/
Birdsfoot Violet - Viola pedata 1
Photo Courtesy of Prairie Moon Nursery http://www.prairiemoon.com/