Prairie Violet (Viola pedatifida)
What a sweet little plant! The Prairie Violet is a host plant for the Great Spangled Fritillary, the Variegated Fritillary, the Silver-Bordered Fritillary, and 28 other butterflies and moths in our area (nwf.org) including the threatened Regal Fritillary (Speyeria idalia) (mnfi.anr.msu.edu). The Prairie Violet is not aggressive like some Viola species and is, therefore, a nice plant for small, drier landscapes. They are such a treat because they bloom so early and can last well into the summer months.
Photo credit: Forest Service Eastern Region (1), John Blair (2)
Life Cycle: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Full, partial sun
Soil Moisture: Medium, Medium-dry
Height: 6 inches
Plant Spacing: 6-8 inches
Bloom Time: April-June
Bloom Color: Purple
Advantages: Pollinator Favorite, Bird Favorite, Great landscaping plant
Host Plant: Great Spangled Fritillary, the Variegated Fritillary, the Silver-Bordered Fritillary, and 28 other species of butterflies and moths use this as a caterpillar host plant in our area (nwf.org)
Beneficial for Endangered or Threatened Species: Regal Fritillary (Speyeria idalia) (mnfi.anr.msu.edu)
