Labrador Violet (Viola labradorica)

Viola labradorica has bronze-purple foliage and violet purple flowers from May to September. A low-growing spreader it can be used as a ground cover. It self sows and sends out runners. Viola labradorica is semi-evergreen to evergreen. It is a host plant for Fritillary Butterfly caterpillars.

Viola labradorica is native to the eastern third of the United States, north into Canada and Greenland. It is naturally found in moist or swampy deciduous woodlands, and moist meadows in wooded areas.

Viola labradorica prefers dappled or partial to full shade and average to moist, well-drained soils. It will tolerate dry conditions once established. This is an aggressive Viola that should be sited with caution. It spreads by runners and it self-sows when its seed capsules open explosively.

Viola is a rather dainty family of low-growing plants with perky colorful flowers. Viola is said to symbolize faithfulness.

Semi-evergreen
Attracts: 🐛 🐝
Light: part to full shade
Soil: medium to wet, well-drained
Bloom Color: purple
Bloom Time: spring to early fall