Wild violets are common, low-growing perennial plants frequently encountered across North America. These flowering herbs belong to the genus Viola and are members of the Violaceae family. While often recognized by their small, purple blooms, the genus contains hundreds of species with diverse appearances. This guide focuses on the specific features of the flower, foliage, color, and key differences from common look-alike plants.
Identifying Features of the Wild Violet Flower
The bloom of the wild violet exhibits zygomorphic, or irregular, symmetry. This means the flower can be divided into two mirrored halves along only one vertical plane, unlike radially symmetrical flowers. The five petals are arranged distinctly: the upper two point upward, the two lateral petals spread outward, and the single lowest petal acts as a landing platform for pollinators.
This lower petal is typically larger and frequently displays contrasting color veins that guide insects toward the center. A defining characteristic is the nectary spur, a small, hollow extension located at the back of the lowest petal. This spur contains nectar and helps distinguish true violets within the genus Viola.
Understanding Wild Violet Foliage
The leaves often provide the clearest identification cue when the plant is not in bloom. Leaves typically emerge on long stems, called petioles, directly from the plant’s root crown, a growth habit known as acaulescent. The most common shape is cordate, or heart-shaped, though some species present reniform, or kidney-shaped, leaves. The leaf edges are characterized by rounded teeth or scalloping, referred to as crenate or serrated margins. The surface texture can vary, sometimes appearing smooth and waxy, or slightly hairy depending on the species.
Common Colors and Species Variations
While the term “violet” suggests a single color, the genus Viola displays a wide range of hues. The most commonly encountered species in North America, such as the Common Blue Violet (Viola sororia), exhibits a deep blue or purple color. Many species also feature a white throat or distinct dark veins on the petals. Variations include pure white flowers, often with purple markings, and bright yellow varieties, like the Downy Yellow Violet (Viola pubescens). Some species are bi-colored, displaying a mix of two or more shades on the same bloom. The extensive hybridization within the genus means that color can sometimes vary even within a single species.
Distinguishing Violets from Look-Alikes
African Violets (Saintpaulia) are frequently mistaken for wild violets, but they are not related and are primarily indoor houseplants. African Violets typically have a radially symmetrical, star-shaped flower with six petals, unlike the five-petaled, zygomorphic wild violet.
Another common look-alike is Ground Ivy, or Creeping Charlie (Glechoma hederacea). While its flowers are also small and purple, Ground Ivy is a creeping vine that roots at the nodes along its stems. In contrast, the leaves of many wild violets rise individually from the base. Crushing a leaf of Ground Ivy releases a distinct minty or pungent aroma, which is absent in the wild violet.