Spearleaf Violet Viola hastata

Spearleaf violet is an herbaceous perennial wildflower native to the eastern United States. In North Carolina, it can be found in the mountains and occasionally the Piedmont in rich, open woods and dry-mesic oak forests and areas with acidic soils. It is a member of the violet family (Violaceae). The species epithet is Latin for “shaped like a spearhead” and describes the distinctive shape of the leaves.

The spearleaf violet can grow in a variety of situations, from full sun to deep shade, as long as the soil is humus-rich and acidic. The plants do not thrive in heat and prefer cooler sites in the mountains. If grown in the Piedmont or coastal regions, it should be grown in shade, away from hot, harsh sun. 

The leaves are a medium green with an attractive silvery mottling pattern. They are arrowhead or sword-like in shape, wide at the bottom and tapering to a point. This species of violet is one of the caulescent violets, meaning the leaves are spaced apart along the stem rather than clustered in a rosette. Its leaves make it an easy violet to identify.  The variation in the leaves has been said to resemble snowflakes, no two are exactly alike.  The yellow blooms occur in spring. Nectar from the flowers attracts butterflies and bees. Like most violets, its flowers support specialized miner bees: Andrena (Gonandrena) fragilis, Andrena (Gonandrena) integra, and Andrena (Gonandrena) platyparia. The plant supports Fritillary (Boloria bellona) butterfly, whose caterpillars feed on the leaves. Birds and small mammals use the seed fruits as a food source. This plant is resistant to damage by deer.

Its spreading habit makes the spearleaf violet a good choice as a ground cover. Grow in naturalized woodland settings in native, rock, shade or cottage gardens. It is a good addition to butterfly and pollinator gardens.

Insects, Diseases and Other Problems: No serious insect or disease issues. 

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