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Viola glabella (Pioneer Violet)

Pioneer Violet, Smooth Yellow Violet, Stream Violet

Viola glabella, Evergreen Violet, Pioneer Violet, Smooth Yellow Violet, Stream Violet, Shade plants, shade perennial, Yellow Violets, violet flowers, plants for shade
Viola glabella, Evergreen Violet, Pioneer Violet, Smooth Yellow Violet, Stream Violet, Shade plants, shade perennial, Yellow Violets, violet flowers, plants for shade
Viola glabella, Evergreen Violet, Pioneer Violet, Smooth Yellow Violet, Stream Violet, Shade plants, shade perennial, Yellow Violets, violet flowers, plants for shade

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 from 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.

Violets (Viola): How to Grow and Care with Success


Want to learn how to grow and care for Violets like a pro? Follow these simple steps and enjoy the beauty of these charming plants

Requirements

Hardiness 5 - 8
Climate Zones 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18
Plant Type Perennials
Plant Family Violaceae
Genus Viola
Common names Violet
Exposure Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Early, Mid, Late)
Summer (Early, Mid)
Height 4" - 8"
(10cm - 20cm)
Maintenance Low
Water Needs Average, High
Soil Type Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Showy
Native Plants United States, California, Alaska, Rocky Mountains, Pacific Northwest, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, 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
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Alternative Plants to Consider

Viola palustris (Marsh Violet)
Viola sempervirens (Evergreen Violet)
Viola pedatifida (Prairie Violet)
Viola rotundifolia (Round-Leaved Violet)
Viola bicolor (Field Pansy)
Viola cucullata (Marsh Blue Violet)

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Viola (Violet)
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Pansies: How to Grow and Care with Success
Violets (Viola): How to Grow and Care with Success
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.
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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 Violaceae
Genus Viola
Common names Violet
Exposure Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Early, Mid, Late)
Summer (Early, Mid)
Height 4" - 8"
(10cm - 20cm)
Maintenance Low
Water Needs Average, High
Soil Type Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Showy
Native Plants United States, California, Alaska, Rocky Mountains, Pacific Northwest, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, 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
How Many Plants
Do I Need?
Guides with
Viola (Violet)
Not sure which Viola (Violet) to pick?
Compare Now

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