Field Pansy Viola rafinesquei

Field pansy is a native annual plant in the violet family found throughout much of North America and is a winter annual weed. It forms colonies in fields, along roadsides and other disturbed sites such as prairies, pastures, and other waste areas.  It is most abundant in sandy soils. It prefers full sun in moist sandy soil but adapts to other soils and part shade. Although considered weedy, this little plant attracts wildlife and is an early spring nectar source for bees.  It tolerates light foot traffic and can be used as a lawn alternative.  

The flower is solitary, rising from the leaf axils on the stalks.  It has 5 dark veined petals, with the lateral petals bearded and the lower one will have a yellow patch at its base.  The petals are typically pale blue, however can also be white with a slight blue tint.

This is the only annual in the Violet species that produce cleistogamous flowers.  That is a type of automatic self-pollination of a plant by using non-opening but self-pollinating flowers.

A distinguishing feature of this viola is the length of the sepals.  Its petals are longer than the sepals, whereas other varieties of violas have petals that are shorter than the sepals. 

Field pansy can be planted in home landscapes, however, ir has a weedy nature making it a poor choice or the perennial garden.  Best planted in large areas such as a meadow where it is free to spread.  

Its common name Johnny-jump-up comes from its quick growth in the spring.  It appears to jump up.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No significant problems.

The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home & Garden Information Center has a factsheet on common pests and diseases. NC State Extension has a publication on the control of Field pansy as a weed of turfgrass.