Violets Viola walteri

Walter's violet is a native, herbaceous perennial wildflower of the Southeastern United States. It is a member of the violet family (Violaceae) that grows in moist deciduous woodland areas, forests and rocky ledges. The species epithet honors British-born American botanist Thomas Walter (d. 1789), author of Flora Caroliniana (1788).

It prefers partial to full shade well-drained acidic to slightly alkaline sandy loam soils. Propagate by seed, root division, stem and root cuttings. Typically, does well when transplanted. In favorably moist conditions, it spreads by both rhizomes and above-ground stolons. In dry locations, it will not spread vegetatively.  

The basal leaves of Walter’s violet are partially evergreen, new growth will commence in the early spring. Its form is caulescent, i.e., having an aerial stem, not just a basal rosette, although at times it may appear acaulescent or stemless. Walter’s violet can be distinguished from other violas by its trailing stems, rounded leaves, blue flowers and fimbriated (fringed) stipules. It is one of the earliest native violets to bloom.  

Choose Walter’s violet for woodland, native, pollinator or cottage gardens. It can be used as a ground cover, accent or border. The leaves are attractive even without flowers.

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

More information on Viola.