Product Description
Native to North America, Viola pedatifida (Prairie Violet) is a low-growing perennial forming a basal rosette of pinnately-divided, medium green leaves reminiscent of a bird’s foot or resembling those of larkspurs (Delphinium). Blooming in mid spring to early summer, attractive, deep blue-violet flowers, about 1 in. wide (2.5 cm), with conspicuous white throats are on display. Their lateral petals are bearded and the lower petal is lined with dark purple lines that are nectar guides for insects. A second bloom may occur in fall. The blossoms hang atop leafless stalks barely taller than the foliage.In most violets the cleistogamous flowers produce the abundance of seed. Easy, hardy and adaptable, Prairie Violet grows naturally in prairies, and other mesic areas from a thick rhizome. It is well-suited to border fronts, rock gardens, cottage gardens or prairies. A full sun to part shade lover, it is best grown in humus-rich,moist,well-drained soils.Will tolerate some dryness.It prefers full sun in the northern part of its growing range, but welcomes part shade in the hot southern part of its growing range.
Product Information
- HARDINESS ZONE:3-8
- GROW:Direct sow in late fall, pressing the seed into the surface of the soil. For spring planting, mix the seeds with moist sand and store in the refrigerator for 60 days before planting. Keep the soil very lightly moist until germination, which can be slow and irregular.
- WHEN TO PLANT:Spring or late fall.
- TALL:Growing up to 4-8 in. tall (10-20 cm).
- EDIBLE:Young leaves can be mixed into salads or eaten as a cooked green. The flowers can be candied by dipping them into water, drying them, and sprinkling them with sugar. They contain vitamins C and A.
