Viola pedata is a violet native to states east of the Rockies, from Texas to Maine (but not in Florida for some reason). This plant is different in three ways – First, the leaves are deeply lobed. Second, there are no hairs near the throat of the flower. Third, and last: Unlike other violets this species has no cleistogamous flowers. Other viola species have flowers that do not open, but are self-pollinated, in addition to the regular flowers.
I have the plant located in a dappled shade spot in the woodland garden, even though this violet species can handle full sun – I just don’t have that much full sun real estate, it is primarily a woodland garden after all! I do have the right soil conditions for it, namely sandy, rocky, and somewhat acidic.
As with other violets, the plant is edible – the young leaves and flowers can be eaten raw, added to a salad, or can be served cooked.
| Scientific name: | Viola pedata |
| Common name: | birdfoot violet |
| Other name: | crow foot violet |
| Bloom time: | mid spring to early summer |
| Color: | light blue |
| Light requirements: | full sun to partial shade |
| Zone: | 4 to 9 |
| Soil: | mildly acidic to mildly alkaline |
| Water: | average water needs |
| Origin: | eastern US and Ontario |
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