Viola primulifolia
primrose-leaved violet
Overview
Viola primulifolia is a low, stemless perennial in the violet family (Violaceae), forming small clumps 2-6 inches (5-15 cm) tall that spread by slender runners. Unlike the heart-shaped leaves of many violets, its blades are oblong to oval, 1-3 inches (2.5-8 cm) long, with a rounded or slightly squared base that tapers abruptly into a winged leaf stalk, recalling the foliage of a primrose. The flowers are white, about 0.5-0.8 inch (12-20 mm) across, with five petals; the three lower petals carry narrow purple veins, and the lateral pair may bear a sparse beard. Each bloom rises on its own leafless stalk directly from the base of the plant. Like other violets, it also produces closed, self-pollinating flowers near ground level later in the season that set seed without opening. Spreading runners root at their tips to form new plantlets, building loose colonies in moist ground. One limitation in the garden is its need for steady moisture, since it falters in dry soil.
Native Range
Viola primulifolia is native to eastern North America, ranging from eastern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas, with scattered occurrences farther west. It grows in wet meadows, bog edges, seeps, damp open woods, and streamsides.Suggested Uses
This violet is used as a groundcover in rain gardens, bog edges, woodland borders, and other moist, partly shaded sites. Its spring flowers draw early native bees, and it serves as a larval host for fritillary butterflies. Spreading runners help it knit together damp ground.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height2" - 6"
Width/Spread6" - 1'
Bloom Information
Flowering occurs in spring, mainly April through May, when white flowers rise on slender stalks above the leaves. Later in the season the plant produces closed, self-pollinating flowers at the base that set seed without opening. Seed and creeping runners together build new colonies.
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
white with purple veinsFoliage Description
greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 3-8 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Viola primulifolia grows in full sun to partial shade in consistently moist to wet, acidic soil rich in organic matter. It withstands seasonally saturated ground and suits the margins of bogs, ponds, and rain gardens. Plants spread by runners to form loose mats and need little care once established in damp sites. They tolerate poor soils and need no fertilizer. In dry conditions the foliage declines, so steady moisture is the main requirement. Division of rooted runners in spring or fall increases plantings.Pruning
Pruning is minimal for this low perennial. Tattered or spent leaves can be removed to tidy the clump. Runners may be trimmed or lifted to keep colonies within bounds.Container Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 1 gallons