PlantFiles: Northern Woodland Violet
Viola septentrionalis

Botanica Encyclopedia: Viola septentrionalis (Northern Blue Violet.) This spring-flowering perennial from North America bears large flowers with a spur, in hues usually of bluish purple but sometimes white. The hairy green leaves are pointed and oval to heart-shaped and have toothed edges. The plant has creeping and suckering stems and grows 6-8" high and wide. Zones 7-10
Cultivation: Most of the cultivated Viola species will tolerate light frosts at least, and many are fully frost hardy. The more compact perennial species suit rock gardens where they do best in cooler, moister spots, while the more spreading species make effective ground covers beneath trees and taller shrubs, requiring little or no attention. Pansies and violas (Viola x wittrockiana) are grown as annuals or pot plants in full sun, but appreciate shelter from drying winds; sow seed in late winter or early spring, under glass if neccessary, planting out in late spring in soil that is well-drained but not too rich. Water well and feed sparingly as flowers develop. Propagate perennial species by division or from cuttings.