The true violet belongs exclusively to the genus Viola, a group of small flowering plants distributed widely across the temperate regions of the world. The focus for accurate identification rests on a few specific morphological traits of the flower, leaves, and overall growth habit.
The Distinctive Flower Structure
The most identifiable feature of the true violet flower is its distinct five-petal structure, which exhibits bilateral symmetry. This structure means the flower can be divided into two equal halves only along one central line, unlike a radially symmetrical flower that can be divided in multiple ways. The five petals are arranged as two upper petals, two lateral or side petals, and one broad lower petal. This arrangement is strongly asymmetrical, with the upper petals often appearing upright or slightly backward-facing. The two lateral petals typically spread out horizontally, and in many species, they feature small tufts of hair near the center.
The largest petal is the bottom one, which functions as a landing platform for pollinators. This lower petal is uniquely characterized by a hollow extension at its back called a spur or sac, which encloses the nectar-producing glands.
Color and Size Variations
Despite the name, the flowers of the Viola genus appear in a spectrum of colors far beyond the deep purple or violet hue. Common colors include shades of blue, white, cream, and bright yellow, and many cultivated varieties display combinations of these colors. The flowers are generally small and low-growing, with individual blooms typically measuring less than one inch (about 2.5 cm) across. The plants themselves are diminutive, typically reaching a mature height of only 2 to 12 inches (5 to 30 cm).
Many flowers feature prominent markings, often darker veins or lines that radiate from the center of the bloom toward the edges of the lower petal. These markings are sometimes called nectar guides, which help direct pollinators toward the nectar reward located within the spur.
Leaf and Growth Characteristics
Leaves of true violets are frequently heart-shaped or kidney-shaped, technically described as cordate or reniform. These leaves usually have finely scalloped or rounded teeth along their edges, a texture known as crenate. The growth pattern of many species is described as acaulescent, meaning the leaves and flower stalks arise directly from a central point at ground level. This forms a tight cluster of leaves called a basal rosette, with no visible stem above the soil.
Clarifying Look-Alikes
A common source of misidentification involves the popular houseplant known as the African Violet, Saintpaulia, which is not a true violet. While the names overlap, African Violets belong to a completely different plant family, the Gesneriaceae, and are native to eastern Africa. African Violet flowers possess a radially symmetrical structure, meaning all five petals are nearly identical in shape and size, lacking the complex asymmetry and the distinct spur of a true violet. Furthermore, the leaves of Saintpaulia are rounded, thick, and covered in fine, velvety hairs, a texture never found on the smooth or lightly hairy leaves of true violets.