Description

Bird-foot violet is a low, clumping perennial with large, showy flowers. The distinctive “bird’s-foot”-shaped leaves (thus the common name) are deeply cut into 3-5 narrowly lobed segments. Flowers are variably colored pale to dark purple and 1-1 1/2 inches across, with 5 petals, the 2 upper ones smaller than the lower 3. The lowest petal has the dark streakings which are common to most violets. 5 stamens with brilliant orange anthers.

Attracts birds, butterflies. Larval host for the Regal Fritillary, which is now absent from our area and a species of concern for the US Fish and Wildlife Service.

This violet does not reproduce vegetatively like most other violets. Reproduction is by seed only.

Good soil drainage required to prevent root rot. Prefers sandy, gravelly soil. Does not spread by runners. May self-seed in optimum growing conditions (give it space – don’t let its neighbors crowd it out). Considered more difficult to grow than most other violets, but such a cute little plant is worth the effort!

Height: 0.25-0.5 ft.
Spread: 0.25-0.5 ft.
Family: Violaceae
Bloom time: March to May
Sun: full sun
Water: dry to medium
Tolerates deer

photo credit: Eric in SF