Common Blue Violet (Viola sororia) is a delightful perennial wildflower that brightens gardens and natural areas with its heart-shaped leaves and vibrant purple blooms. Flowering in early spring, it provides an essential nectar source for early-season pollinators and serves as a vital host plant for fritillary butterfly larvae. Adaptable and low-maintenance, this versatile plant thrives in various conditions and is perfect for creating lush, naturalized groundcover.
Key Features:
- Beautiful Blooms: Delicate purple flowers add charm and color to your garden in early spring.
- Pollinator-Friendly: Supports early-season pollinators with nectar and serves as an essential host for fritillary butterfly larvae.
- Versatile Growth: Thrives in partial shade to full sun with moist, well-drained soil, growing 4–10 inches tall.
- Naturalizes Easily: Spreads to form lush groundcover, making it ideal for meadows, woodland edges, and shaded garden areas.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care, making it a perfect choice for sustainable gardening.
- Eco-Friendly: Grown non-GMO and free of harmful neonicotinoids, promoting a healthy ecosystem for pollinators and wildlife.
Available in sets of three, six, or 12 plants to suit gardens of any size.
Why Choose Common Blue Violet?
Common blue violet is not only a beautiful addition to your landscape but also plays a critical role in supporting pollinators and butterflies. Its ability to naturalize and spread makes it a practical choice for filling in bare areas, while its early blooms provide much-needed resources for wildlife during the spring.
Planting Tips:
- Location: Prefers partial shade to full sun with moist, well-drained soil.
- Watering: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots. Once established, it tolerates occasional dry spells.
- Maintenance: Minimal care required. There's no need to deadhead the flowers, as seed production supports natural reseeding. Leaving the stems standing in the fall offers overwintering sites for beneficial insects. Allow plants to naturalize and spread for maximum groundcover and ecological benefits.
For more information on planting, view our How to Plant Your Native Plants guide and other planting tips in the Garden for Wildlife Learning Center.
Enhance your garden with the timeless beauty and ecological benefits of common blue violet. Its delicate blooms, ability to naturalize, and support for wildlife make it an invaluable addition to any landscape.