Viola rotundifolia
round-leaved violet
Overview
Viola rotundifolia is a low, stemless perennial of eastern woodlands, growing 1-4 inches (2.5-10 cm) tall in flower. In early spring it produces small yellow flowers about 0.5 inch (1.3 cm) across, the lower petals lined with brown-purple veins, held just above the leaves. The rounded, heart-based leaves are 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) wide at bloom and enlarge to 4 inches (10 cm) or more after flowering, lying flat against the ground and staying green into winter. The species is native to rich, moist deciduous and coniferous woods, slopes, and streambanks in the Appalachians and northeastern North America. It grows in partial to full shade in cool, humus-rich, consistently moist soil and declines in dry or sunny sites. It spreads slowly by short rhizomes and self-sown seed to form small patches. The flowers appear among the first woodland blooms of the year. It is recognized among woodland violets by its yellow flowers and broad, flat, rounded leaves. Foliage persists through winter in mild years. Hardy in USDA zones 3-7.
Native Range
Viola rotundifolia is native to eastern North America, from Quebec and Maine south through the Appalachian Mountains to Georgia. It grows in rich, moist deciduous and mixed woods, on shaded slopes, and along streambanks.Suggested Uses
Used in shade and woodland gardens, as a low groundcover under trees, and in native plant plantings. Suited to moist, shaded slopes and the front of woodland borders. Spaced 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) apart to form patches.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height1" - 4"
Width/Spread6" - 1'
Reaches mature size in approximately 2 years
Bloom Information
Blooms in early spring, March to May, among the first woodland wildflowers, for about 2-4 weeks. Flowers open while the leaves are still small. Later in the season the plant may produce closed, self-pollinating flowers near the ground.
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
GreenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 1-4 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
Grow in partial to full shade in cool, moist, humus-rich soil that does not dry out. Plants in sun or dry ground fade and go dormant early. Top-dress with leaf litter or compost to mimic the woodland floor. It spreads slowly by rhizomes and seed, forming small colonies over time. No fertilizer is needed in rich woodland soil. Mulch helps hold moisture around the shallow roots.Pruning
No routine pruning is needed. Tattered or dead leaves may be removed in spring. Spent flower stalks can be left to self-seed or trimmed.Container Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 1 gallons