Etymology: Viola: a classical Latin name for violets
Plants: erect to drooping, perennial, 1/2"-8" tall forb, hairless, flowering when only 1/2"-3/4" tall; stems clustered
Leaves: basal leaves thin, pale green, mostly smooth, roundish to kidney-shaped; stem leaves mostly 1/2"-1 1/2" wide, round with a heart-shaped base
Flowers: light blue to purple, 5-parted, 1/4"-1/2" long, petals with dark veins, 2 side petals bearded, spur less than 1/4" long; solitary from the leaf axils on a long stalk taller than the leaves; blooms June-Aug.
Fruits: elliptical capsule with light brown seeds
Habitat: full sun to shade; dry to moderate moisture; woods, meadows; in sandy, loamy soil
Conservation Status: Native

Floristic Rating: Coefficient of Conservatism = 4, Wetland Indicator = FAC USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos David G. Smith's "Delaware Wilflowers": Beautiful photographs; descriptions