Etymology: Viola: a classical Latin name for violets
Plants: erect, annual/perennial forb, basically stemless
Leaves: usually with heart-shaped base, edges with rounded teeth, long-stalked
Flowers: violet to white, 5-parted, 3/4"-1 1/4" wide, petals widely open, spreading side and spurred petals bearded with pointed hairs; solitary, basal, long-stalked but usually shorter than the leaves
Fruits: elliptical capsule with dark brown seeds
Habitat: moist, wet; woods, meadows

Floristic Rating: Coefficient of Conservatism = 4, Wetland Indicator = FACW USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos