Family: Violaceae
Author: L.
Bibliography: Sp. Pl.: 933 (1753)
Year: 1753
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Viola
Vegetable: Unknown
Observations: SE. Canada to C. & E. U.S.A.
Description
The Bird-foot violet, scientifically known as Viola pedata, is a striking and unique perennial plant cherished for its delicate beauty and distinctive foliage. Belonging to the Violaceae family, it is native to regions spanning from southeastern Canada to central and eastern United States.
This charming wildflower, first documented in 1753, has been a subject of admiration due to its beautiful, deeply lobed leaves that resemble a bird’s foot, hence its common name. These leaves provide a striking backdrop to the vibrant flowers, making this plant stand out in its natural habitat.
Bird-foot violet is most recognized for its stunning blooms. The flowers, appearing in late spring to early summer, boast a rich palette of colors ranging from light lavender to deep violet. Each blossom features a unique structure with five petals: the lower petal is often a darker shade, presenting an eye-catching contrast that draws the attention of admirers and pollinators alike.
The plant thrives in well-drained, sandy or rocky soils, typically found in open woods, prairies, and dry fields. It prefers sunny to partially shaded environments, where it can receive ample light to support its growth and blooming phase. Bird-foot violet’s resilience and adaptability make it a valuable addition to naturalized landscapes and garden settings that aim to foster native flora.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Bird-foot violet plays an ecological role by providing nectar for various species of butterflies and bees. Its presence enhances biodiversity and contributes to the health of the ecosystems where it thrives.
In cultivation, gardeners appreciate Viola pedata for its minimal maintenance requirements and its ability to bring a splash of wild beauty to rock gardens and natural settings. It is often propagated by seed or division, ensuring that this splendid native species continues to beautify both wild and cultivated landscapes for years to come.
In summary, the Bird-foot violet is not just a beautiful plant, but also a symbol of the delicate balance and intricate beauty of our natural world. Whether encountered in the wild or lovingly cultivated in a garden, Viola pedata’s remarkable flowers and unique leaves always captivate those who have the pleasure of viewing them.
Common Names
Eng: bird-foot violet, birdfoot violet, crowfoot violet, pansy violet, bird’s foot violet, bird’s-foot violet
Swe: fågelviol
Fra: violette pédalée, violette pied-d’oiseau
En: Bird-foot violet, Pansy violet, Crowfoot violet, Bird’s Foot Violet, Bird’s-foot violet, Birdfoot Violet
Fr: Violette pédalée, Violette pied-d’oiseau
Fa: بنفشه پاپرندهای
Sv: Fågelviol
Synonyms
- Oionychion pedatum ((L.) Nieuwl.)
Distribution
- Alabama (native)
- Arkansas (native)
- Connecticut (native)
- Delaware (native)
- District of Columbia (native)
- Georgia (native)
- Illinois (native)
- Indiana (native)
- Iowa (native)
- Kansas (native)
- Kentucky (native)
- Louisiana (native)
- Maryland (native)
- Masachusettes (native)
- Michigan (native)
- Minnesota (native)
- Mississippi (native)
- Missouri (native)
- Nebraska (native)
- New Hampshire (native)
- New Jersey (native)
- New York (native)
- North Carolina (native)
- Ohio (native)
- Oklahoma (native)
- Ontario (native)
- Pennsylvania (native)
- Rhode I. (native)
- South Carolina (native)
- Tennessee (native)
- Texas (native)
- Virginia (native)
- West Virginia (native)
- Wisconsin (native)
Additional Images
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Flower
Taken Apr 22, 2021 by erinhines (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 22, 2021 by erinhines (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 22, 2021 by erinhines (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 2022 by Jerry Colwell (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 22, 2021 by erinhines (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Mar 31, 2012 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken May 5, 2017 by Tela Botanica − _ (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 15, 2009 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 20, 2005 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken May 23, 2020 by Ingeborg Clark (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Apr 11, 2020 by Brad Kelley (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 16, 2021 by Vicki T (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Gerrit Davidse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Howard, R.A. (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Niehaus, T.F. (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Haug, E. (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Haug, E. (cc-by-nc-sa)
Bark
Taken Apr 20, 2005 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Gerrit Davidse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5331278)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:286957-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Viola pedata L.)