Kidney-leaved Violet Viola renifolia

Kidneyleaf violet is an herbaceous perennial wildflower from northern parts of North America. This violet grows in spruce and temperate coniferous forests in swampy wooded areas. It is a member of the violet family (Violaceae). The species epithet is Latin for “kidney-leaf.”

This species thrives best in partial shade on moist, humus-rich soil. It is fully cold-hardy but appears intolerant of summer heat, so place this violet in the coolest part of the garden.

At flowering, the leaves are kidney-shaped (wider than long), but after flowering is complete, subsequently produced leaves are larger and more heart-shaped (longer than wide). The upper leaf surface is smooth, while the lower surface is typically hairy or occasionally hairless. The kidneyleaf violet can occasionally be confused with other violets with white flowers. With wild white violet (Viola macloskeyi), the most distinguishing characteristic is that it spreads by thread-like stolons or runners; the kidneyleaf violet does not have runners. While the Canadian violet (Viola canadensis) has heart-shaped leaves throughout its life, the leaves of the kidneyleaf violet are kidney-shaped foliage up to and during flowering. Both the other species are usually bearded, whereas the kidneyleaf violet is not bearded.

It will not spread by runners or stolons to form a groundcover. However, a light groundcover can be achieved over time by its habit of self-seeding. Use in a woodland, pollinator, or children’s garden.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  In some locations, livestock grazing and trampling have led to its disappearance. Other locations report this plant as threatened.

More information on Viola.