Viola glabella (Pioneer Violet)
Pioneer Violet, Smooth Yellow Violet, Stream Violet
Easy to establish in woodland gardens, Viola glabella (Pioneer Violet) is a low-growing perennial forming a basal rosette of large, bright green, heart-shaped leaves. A profusion of tiny, outward-facing, deep yellow flowers, 1/2 in. wide (1 cm), appear in early spring to mid summer. Their lateral and lower petals feature charming purple whiskers. The lower petal forms a landing platform for insects seeking nectar within the spur. The exquisitely beautiful blossoms rise on slender stalks just above the foliage. This perennial wildflower spreads by scaly, fleshy rhizomes and self-seeding, and carpets the ground with its brilliant presence. A very common species in moist, shaded places in woods in the Pacific Northwest, it is often regarded as an early sign of spring. Pioneer Violet is a wonderful addition to the shade garden. If left to set seed, expect more of these little gems to appear every year.
- Growing up to 4-8 in. tall (10-20 cm), this Violet may reseed and can become a bit invasive.
- A part shade lover, it is best grown in humus-rich, consistently moist to wet, well-drained soils.
- This plant is very versatile and can be used in cottage gardens, woodland gardens and along ponds and streams.
- No serious pest or disease issues. Keep an eye out for slugs and snails.
- Propagate by seed.
- Native to northeastern Asia and northwestern North America.
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Requirements
Hardiness | 5
– 8 |
---|---|
Climate Zones | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18 |
Plant Type | Perennials |
Plant Family | Viola - Violets |
Exposure | Partial Sun |
Season of Interest |
Spring (Early,Mid,Late) Summer (Early,Mid) |
Height | 4" – 8" (10cm – 20cm) |
Water Needs | Average, High |
Maintenance | Low |
Soil Type | Clay, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Showy |
Native Plants | United States, Alaska, California, Pacific Northwest, Idaho, Oregon, Washington, Rocky Mountains, Montana |
Tolerance | Wet Soil |
Attracts | Butterflies |
Garden Uses | Ground Covers, Ponds and Streams, Underplanting Roses and Shrubs |
Garden Styles | Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow |
By Peganum Forest Service Alaska,Peter Stevens, Flickr
While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.
Requirements
Hardiness | 5
– 8 |
---|---|
Climate Zones | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18 |
Plant Type | Perennials |
Plant Family | Viola - Violets |
Exposure | Partial Sun |
Season of Interest |
Spring (Early,Mid,Late) Summer (Early,Mid) |
Height | 4" – 8" (10cm – 20cm) |
Water Needs | Average, High |
Maintenance | Low |
Soil Type | Clay, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Showy |
Native Plants | United States, Alaska, California, Pacific Northwest, Idaho, Oregon, Washington, Rocky Mountains, Montana |
Tolerance | Wet Soil |
Attracts | Butterflies |
Garden Uses | Ground Covers, Ponds and Streams, Underplanting Roses and Shrubs |
Garden Styles | Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow |