Bird's Foot Violet

Viola pedata

Bird's Foot Violet is the most striking native violet in eastern North America. and the most demanding about its conditions, which is exactly why it's worth seeking out. The deeply dissected leaves, cut into narrow lobes like a bird's three-toed foot, are unlike any other violet, and the late-spring flowers are a clear, flat pansy-violet in the two-tone bicolor form (upper petals deep purple, lower three pale lavender with orange stamens). The single-color lilac form is also lovely. Both bloom prolifically in April and May when given what they need: lean, dry, acidic soil in full sun. This is a plant for spots where nothing else thrives. dry sandy banks, thin rocky outcrops, the sunny edge of a woodland opening. It doesn't compete well in rich garden soil, where more aggressive plants will crowd it out. Get the conditions right and it will reward you with reliable spring color and serve as a host plant for several native fritillary butterflies, whose caterpillars feed exclusively on violet leaves.