Often considered one of the prettiest violas, this unusual violet grows up to 10" tall and has leaves shaped like a bird's foot. It blooms in early spring and sometimes in fall. The pansy-like, pale-to-dark purple flowers have bright orange anthers and are pollinated by bees and butterflies. Bird's foot violet takes a clumping form and grows best in well-drained soils and full sun, making it the perfect choice for a rock garden. Unlike most violets, this one reproduces only by seed, which may make it a bit more difficult to grow. However, it self-seeds in ideal growing conditions. Ants are attracted to the sugary coating secreted by the seeds; they aid in seed dispersal by carrying the seeds back to their nests. This process is known as myrmecochory.
The genus Viola is Latin for “various sweet-scented flowers,” and pedata means "like a bird’s foot," which refers to the deeply cut, lobed leaves.
Native habitats include rocky, open woods; sandy prairies or forests; glades; road banks; and pinelands. It is restricted to undisturbed, high-quality habitats. Use in groups, along paths, in rock gardens, or on slopes.
Plant Characteristics:
Grows 4-10" tall.
Prefers full sun but tolerates part sun.
Prefers well-drained sandy or gravelly soils and drier soil conditions. Will suffer root rot if in moist soils.
Wildlife Value:
Host plant for 29 species of Lepidoptera larvae, including these fritillary butterflies: Edward's, great spangled, mormon, coronis, and variegated. Nectar from the flowers attract butterflies and bees. Members of the genus Viola support bumble bees, digger bees, and the following specialized miner bees: Andrena fragilis, Andrena integra, and Andrena platyparia. Birds and small mammals use the seed fruits as a food source. Resistant to damage by deer.
Medicinal, Edible, and Other Uses:
Infusions of the roots have been used to treat coughs, colds, and dysentery.
Young leaves and flower buds may be eaten raw, cooked, or made into a tea.
Resources:
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center: https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=vipe
Prairie Moon: https://www.prairiemoon.com/viola-pedata-birds-foot-violet
Johnson's Nursery: https://kb.jniplants.com/bird-foot-violet-viola-pedata
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