Bird's Foot Violet

Bird's Foot Violet (Viola pedata)

Birds foot violet perennials are an eye-catching addition to any outdoor area. With their unique foliage, these hardy plants will draw attention and be the centerpiece of your garden. The deep purple flowers last throughout the season and make a great addition to any landscape. Bird's foot violet perennials will stay healthy and vibrant for years with minimal care. Bring a unique and lovely look to your garden with these perennials, and enjoy the freshness all year round! Enjoy the vibrant color of these gorgeous flowers and the low-maintenance care that comes with them. Make sure to experience the joy of having these delightful flowers in your outdoor area! Make your garden stand out today with bird's foot violet perennials — get them delivered right to your door! Bird's Foot Violet: Viola pedata, or the Bird's Foot Violet, is a lovely herbaceous perennial plant with showy blue or violet flowers that add color to the late-spring garden.

 

 

Bird's Foot Violet Is a Sun-Loving Flower 

Bird's Foot Violet is a North American native species, found naturally growing in meadows, along ditch banks, and in woodland clearings from southern New England through the mid-south and west across the open prairies of the upper midwest.

 

It prefers de-compacted soil, and you will fertilize it about twice yearly--in the early spring and the fall. In late autumn, gardeners in northern climates often add a protective blanket of hardwood mulch. Although Bird's Foot Violet likes moisture, it does not like wet feet, so plan a spot where rainwater does not stand.

Besides routine maintenance, Bird's Foot Violet is easy to grow. 

Where to Plant Birds, Foot Violet

TN Nursery suggests Bird's Foot Violet if you have a sunny spot that needs a touch of late spring color.

Plant Bird's Foot Violet in these spots:

• Near a garden walkway
• Fairy Garden
• Rock garden
• Flower bed
• Garden border
• Mass plantings
• In deep pots or containers

The Magnificent Beauty of Bird's Foot Violet

Bird's Foot Violet gets its name from the unique appearance of its leaves--they grow in a shape that resembles a bird's foot! The leaves are silvery green, elongated to about three inches, and lobed in a way that looks like a claw.

The flowers have four petals--the two upper petals are usually blue, and the lower petals may be a richer shade, like purple or violet. The two-toned effect is stunning.

Bird's Foot Violet grows to about eight inches high and wide, a reasonably sized plant you can use in many settings.

Bird's foot violet plants (Viola pedata) are native to North America and are typically found in open woodlands, meadows, and prairies. They prefer well-drained soil and partial to total sun exposure. When deciding where to plant bird's foot violets, consider the following factors:

1. Light requirements: Bird's foot violets prefer partial to full sun. Choose a location that receives at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
2. Soil conditions: These plants thrive in well-drained soil. Avoid areas with heavy clay soil or those prone to waterlogging. If necessary, improve the soil drainage by incorporating rich media such as compost or peat moss.
3. Natural habitat: Look for areas in your garden that mimic the natural habitat of bird's foot violets, such as open woodlands or meadow-like settings. These plants often grow in association with other native wildflowers and grasses.
4. Consider companion plants: Bird's foot violets can be planted alongside other native wildflowers or grasses that have similar growing requirements. This can create a more natural and visually appealing planting scheme.
5. Proximity to other plants: Ensure the planting area provides enough space for the bird's foot violets to grow and spread. Avoid planting too close to aggressive plants that may crowd or overshadow them.
6. Watering: While birding's foot violets prefer well-drained soil, they still require regular watering, especially during dry periods. Consider the proximity to a water source and the ease of watering the plants when choosing the planting location.

Overall, look for a sunny area with well-drained soil replicating the natural habitat of bird's foot violets. By providing suitable growing conditions, you can help these beautiful native plants thrive in your garden.