Labrador violet (Viola labradorica)

Labrador violet

Features and Characteristics

Viola labradorica, commonly called Labrador violet, is a very low-growing perennial (1-3″ high) which is typically utilized both for its small, attractive, heart-shaped, purple-tinged foliage (to 1 inch across) and its lavender-blue spring flowers. Flowers appear atop leafy stems in May (St. Louis area). Native to moist woods in the northern U.S., Canada and Greenland.

Genus name comes from the Latin name for various sweet-scented flowers.

Specific epithet mean of Labrador, Canada.

Care and Maintenance

Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Spreads, sometimes aggressively, by creeping stems and by self-seeding.

Labrador violet (Viola labradorica) Requirements

Hardiness zone	3 - 8
Sun light	Full sun to part shade
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Low

Common Problems

No serious insect or disease problems.

Uses

Mass as a ground cover for small areas. Filler between stepping stones. Leave undisturbed and allow it to spread in native plant gardens or naturalized areas. Rock gardens.

Labrador violet (Viola labradorica) Details

Common name	Labrador violet
Botanical name	Viola labradorica
Plant type	Herbaceous perennial
Family	Violaceae
Hardiness zone	3 - 8
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Low
Flower color	Violet to lavender
Flowering period	May
Height	0.25 to 0.50 feet
Width	0.25 to 0.50 feet