Viola hastata

Common Names

Halberd-Leaved Yellow Violet, Halberd-Leaved Violet, Spearleaf Violet, Silverleaf Violet, Silver-Leaved Violet, Halberd Leaf Violet

Summary

Halberd-leaved Yellow Violet (Viola hastata) is a caulescent perennial in the Violaceae native to the eastern United States, forming erect, unbranched stems 3–12 inches tall from a thick whitish rhizome, with basal and cauline leaves that are hastate and often variegated with pale silvery-green mottling, the plant bearing bright yellow flowers about ½ inch wide with purple veins and a hairy throat, blooming from March to May, with smaller cleistogamous flowers appearing later for self-pollination; sources describe its distinctive halberd-like leaves and silver-mottled foliage, enhancing woodland color in spring; sources note that cultivation favors bright shade to shade with even moisture, tolerates drought once established, and requires average, rich, well-drained soil; the species is hardy in USDA zones 4a through 9b and is deer resistant; it is suitable for woodland gardens and edging in native plantings, and is valued for attracting bees and butterflies and for restoration use; propagation is commonly by division of short rhizomes.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

6-12 inches

Spread

6-12 inches

Hardiness Zones

Zones 5a-5b

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally Partial Shade.

Soil Type

Acidic, well-drained soil

Soil Drainage

Well-drained soil

Soil pH

pH below 6.0

Bloom Color

Yellow

Bloom Time

Spring (March–May)

Foliage Color

Green foliage with gray-green, pale green, silvery-green tones and variegated forms.

Leaf Lifecycle

Deciduous

Seasons of Interest

Spring and Summer

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Division

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees, butterflies, other pollinators, and birds