Often considered one of the prettiest violas, this unusual violet grows up to 10" tall and has leaves shaped like a bird's foot. It blooms in early spring and sometimes in fall. The pansy-like, pale to dark purple flowers have bright orange anthers and are pollinated by bees and butterflies. Bird's foot violet takes a clumping form and grows best in well-drained soils and full sun, making it the perfect choice for a rock garden. Unlike most violets, this one reproduces only by seed, which may make it a bit more difficult to grow. However, it self-seeds in ideal growing conditions. Ants are attracted to the sugary coating secreted by the seeds; they aid in seed dispersal by carrying the seeds back to their nests. This process is known as myrmecochory. This flower is listed as threatened in Ohio.
The genus Viola is Latin for “various sweet-scented flowers,” and pedata means "like a bird’s foot," which refers to the deeply cut, lobed leaves.
Native habitats include rocky, open woods; sandy prairies or forests; glades; road banks; and pinelands. It is restricted to undisturbed, high-quality habitats. Use in groups, along paths, in rock gardens, or on slopes.
Plant Characteristics:
Grows 4-10" tall.
Prefers full sun but tolerates part sun.
Prefers well-drained sandy or gravelly soils and drier soil conditions. Will suffer root rot if in moist soils.
Wildlife Value:
Host plant for 29 species of Lepidoptera larvae, including these fritillary butterflies: Edward's, great spangled, mormon, coronis, and variegated. Nectar from the flowers attract butterflies and bees. Members of the genus Viola support bumble bees, digger bees, and the following specialized miner bees: Andrena fragilis, Andrena integra, and Andrena platyparia. Birds and small mammals use the seed fruits as a food source. Resistant to damage by deer.
Medicinal, Edible, and Other Uses:
Infusions of the roots have been used to treat coughs, colds, and dysentery.
Young leaves and flower buds may be eaten raw, cooked, or made into a tea.
Resources:
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center: https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=vipe
Prairie Moon: https://www.prairiemoon.com/viola-pedata-birds-foot-violet
Johnson's Nursery: https://kb.jniplants.com/bird-foot-violet-viola-pedata