Photo of Viola sororia

Viola sororia

Common Blue Violet

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The state flower of New Jersey, Common Blue Violets adorn our yards in early spring, providing an important food source for emerging bees.

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Description:

The state flower of New Jersey, Common Blue Violets adorn our yards in early spring, providing an important food source for emerging bees. Each 3/4 inch purple flower has 3 upper and 2 lower petals. The lower petals have a small white hair-like “beard” that guides insects towards the nectar. Flowers rise slightly above a rosette of dark green heart-shaped leaves. When ready, seeds are thrust through mechanical projection by the plant, and will readily germinate the following year. Prefers partial sun, but grows well in full sun or light shade. Prefers rich, moist, well-drained soil. This adaptable flowering perennial can be planted in clumps along borders or used as a groundcover. Its lush leaves offer a green, 3-season accent to other plants in the garden. 

Wildlife Value: Bees value the nectar and birds eat the seeds. Host plant for many Fritillary butterfly caterpillars including Variegated Fritillary (Euptoieta claudia), Aphrodite Fritillary (Speyeria aphrodite), Meadow Fritillary (Boloria bellona), Silver-bordered Fritillary (Boloria selene).  

Plant Details:

Other Scientific Names: Viola papilionacea

Other Common Names: Purple Violet

Plant Type: Flower, Perennial

New Jersey Native: Yes

Bloom Times: Spring

Bloom Colors: Purple, White

Deer Resistance: High

Attracts Pollinators and Wildlife: Bees and Other Pollinators, Butterflies, Birds

Salt Tolerance: Unknown

Hardiness Zone: 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b

Physiographic Region: All Regions in NJ

Grows in Special Ecoregions: Pinelands

Soil Characteristics

Soil Type: Loam, Organic, Sandy

Soil Moisture: Dry, Moist

Soil pH: Slightly Acidic, Neutral, Slightly Alkaline

Light Needs of Plant

Optimal Light: Partial Shade

Light Range: Full Sun, Partial Shade, Shade

Water Needs of Plant

Soil Moisture: Dry, Moist

Drought Tolerance: Medium

Size and Growth Rate

Height: .25 - .50 ft

Spread: .25 - .50 ft

Growth Rate: Medium