Viola walteri aka Walter's Violet

Viola walteri is a low perennial in the violet family, Violaceae. Common names include Walter’s violet and prostrate blue violet. Its native range runs from southern Ohio through the southeastern United States to Texas. It grows in damp woods, deciduous forests, and on rocky ledges. The name honors Thomas Walter, who wrote Flora Caroliniana in 1788.

This creeping plant grows 0.08–0.5 feet (0.025–0.15 metres) tall. Its spread reaches about 1 foot (0.3 metres). Trailing stems give it a flat, spreading form. It has above-ground stems, though these can be hard to see. In moist sites, rhizomes and stolons help it spread. Dry sites prevent this form of spread. Some basal leaves stay green through winter. Fresh growth starts in early spring. The simple leaves grow alternately along the stems. They are pale green, often with patches of different color. Their shapes range from rounded to heart-shaped or kidney-shaped. Leaf edges may be smooth or have rounded teeth. Fringed stipules help set this species apart from other violets.

Walter’s violet flowers in spring, early among native violets. Each bloom grows alone rather than in a cluster. Flowers are blue to purple or lavender, about one inch across. The side petals bear hairs, known as a beard. The blooms stand out against the low leaves. Its fruit is a capsule, with spring listed as its display season. Bees and butterflies visit the flowers. Fritillary butterfly larvae use the plant as a food source.

Grow it in partial shade or deep shade. It suits moist soil that drains well. Sandy loam is a good choice. It accepts soil from acidic to slightly alkaline. The listed hardiness range covers USDA zones 5–9. Gardeners can raise it from seed or divide established plants. Stem cuttings and root cuttings offer other ways to grow it. Plants tend to settle well after transplanting.

Use this violet as ground cover, edging, or a small accent. It also suits woodland, native, cottage, and pollinator gardens. Group plantings show both its leaves and spring flowers. The foliage adds interest between flowering seasons. NC State reports no serious insect or disease problems. However, its page also links southern blight as a possible disease concern.