Birdfoot Violet Viola pedata

Bird-Foot Violet is a native herbaceous plant that may grow 4 to 8 inches high. This plant has basal leaves only that tend to have 3 lobes. The common name comes from the shape of the leaves, they resemble a birds foot.  Lavender-blue or bi-colored flowers with orange anthers appear from early to late spring and may recur in fall. It occurs naturally in rocky, open woods, sandy prairies & pine lands. This species is restricted to undisturbed, high-quality habitats and occurs in the North Carolina mountains, the Piedmont and the coastal areas. It is often considered one of the prettiest violas.

This plant needs well-drained soils and prefers sandy or gravelly soil with a somewhat acid pH in full sun but will tolerate part shade.  It doesn't spread by stolons but may reseed in ideal conditions. This viola may be more difficult to grow than most.

Use this lovely native viola in groups, along paths, in rock gardens or on slopes.  It is somewhat more difficult to grow than other variety violas.  However, it may self seed in optimum growing situations.  

In North Carolina, var. pedata can be naturally found in dry, rocky or sandy forests, woodlands, glades, and road banks whereas var. ranuncuilfolia can be found in sandhills.

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.

Quick ID Hints:

1. Deeply lobed leaves
2. Large flower size to 1.5 inches
3. No hairs at the throat of flowers

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  This plant is particularly susceptible to crown rot if drainage is not excellent.  Crown rot may develop when placed in soil with poor drainage.