Spearleaf Violet Viola hastata

Spearleaf Violet is native to the eastern United States.  In North Carolina, it can be found in the mountains and occasionally the Piedmont. It is found in rich, open woods and ravines and prefers humus-rich acidic soils in part shade. In North Carolina, it can be found in dry-mesic oak forests and areas with acidic soils. The spear-shaped leaves are variegated and the yellow blooms occur in spring. Grow in naturalized woodland settings.

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.  Its common name 'Halberd Leaved Violet, originates from its resemblance to a halberd, a sword used in ancient times.    This variety of viola is one of the caulescent violets, the leaves are on the flowering stem.  Its leaves make it an easy violet to identify.  The variation in the leaves have been said to resemble snowflakes, no two are exactly alike.  

Its spreading habit make this a good choice as a ground cover.

This plant supports Fritillary (Boloria bellona) butterfly larvae. Nectar from the flowers attract butterflies and bees.  Members of the genus Viola support the following specialized miner bees: Andrena (Gonandrena) fragilis, Andrena (Gonandrena) integra, and Andrena (Gonandrena) platyparia. This plant is resistant to damage by deer. Butterflies and moths use this plant as a larval host. Birds and small mammals use the seed fruits as a food source.  This plant is resistant to damage by deer.

No serious insect or disease issues.