California golden violet (Viola pedunculata, Fl. N. Amer. 1: 141 (1838))

Family: Violaceae

Author: Torr. & A.Gray

Bibliography: Fl. N. Amer. 1: 141 (1838)

Year: 1838

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Viola

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: California to Mexico (Baja California Norte)

Description

The California golden violet is a captivating wildflower renowned for its vibrant beauty and ecological significance. Scientifically known as Viola pedunculata, this plant has been documented in botanical literature as early as 1838 by the distinguished botanists John Torrey and Asa Gray.

Thriving in the diverse landscapes from California to Baja California Norte in Mexico, the California golden violet is a true testament to nature’s resilience and adaptability. It belongs to the Violaceae family, which comprises a variety of plants known for their delicate and ornamental flowers.

The California golden violet stands out with its striking yellow blossoms, which bloom profusely, painting the meadows and hillsides with a golden hue during the flowering season. These petals often feature distinctive purple-violet streaks, adding an intricate detail to their overall appearance. The plant typically inhabits grasslands, woodlands, and slopes, where it benefits from the Mediterranean climate characterized by wet winters and dry summers.

Beyond its aesthetic charm, Viola pedunculata plays a vital role in its ecosystem. It serves as a food source and habitat for various pollinators including bees and butterflies, which are drawn to the flowers’ nectar. The plant’s ability to thrive in diverse environmental conditions also helps stabilize soil and prevent erosion in its native regions.

In addition to its ecological contributions, the California golden violet holds cultural and historical significance. Indigenous peoples and early settlers have acknowledged the plant for its medicinal properties, utilizing different parts of the plant in traditional remedies and herbal practices.

The California golden violet is a shining example of botanical beauty and ecological importance. Its presence in the wild not only enhances the natural landscape but also supports a myriad of species, contributing to the overall health and balance of its native habitats.

Common Names

Eng: california golden violet, johnny-jump-up, grass pansy
Spa: gallito
En: California golden violet, Johnny-jump-up, Grass pansy
Es: Gallito

Synonyms

• Viola pedunculata var. tenuifolia ((M.S.Baker & J.C.Clausen) J.T.Howell)
• Viola pedunculata subsp. tenuifolia (M.S.Baker & J.C.Clausen)
• Viola pedunculata subsp. typica (M.S.Baker & J.C.Clausen)

Distribution

• California (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Ingrid P. Lin (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Nov 17, 2022 by Natalie Serovy (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5331230)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:868923-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Viola pedunculata Torr. & A. Gray)

Specifications

Growth