Viola hastata aka Spear Leaf Violet

Viola hastata, or spearleaf violet, is an eastern United States wildflower. It belongs to the violet family, Violaceae. This herbaceous perennial grows in woods and oak forests. In North Carolina, it occurs chiefly in the mountains. It also grows in parts of the Piedmont. Its species name refers to the spear-like leaf shape. Other common names include halberd-leaf violet and halberd-leaf yellow violet.

The plant forms upright clumps and spreads to cover ground. Smooth stems rise from a fleshy rhizome beneath the soil. The leaves grow along these stems, rather than in a rosette. Each simple leaf has a broad base and pointed tip. The green blades may show silver marks, though some lack them. Their edges have teeth, and each leaf has stipules. Most leaves alternate along the stem. Those near a flower can seem to form pairs. The foliage drops at the end of its growing season.

Yellow flowers appear in spring, from March through May in North Carolina. Each bloom has five petals, with purple tones on the back. Purple nectar guides mark the lower petal. Small hairs form a beard on the side petals. The flowers measure less than 0.08 feet [0.025 metres] across. Bees and butterflies visit them for nectar. Oval, buff capsules follow the flowers and hold brown seeds. In North Carolina, fruit develops from May through June. Birds and small mammals eat the seeds.

Grow this violet in acidic soil rich in organic matter. The soil should drain well. It accepts sun, filtered light, partial shade, or deep shade. Cool sites suit it better than hot ones. In warmer lowland gardens, shade protects it from harsh sun. The reported USDA hardiness range is 5a through 8b. Seed offers a way to raise new plants. Its care needs are low when the site suits it.

Use its spreading growth as ground cover in woodland plantings. It also fits rock, shade, native, and cottage gardens. The leaves and spring flowers provide interest in small groups. Fritillary caterpillars feed on its leaves. This makes it useful in butterfly gardens as well. Deer tend to leave it alone. The source reports no major pest or disease trouble. It also lists southern blight as a possible disease.