Common Blue Violet

Light Needs

Partial Sun to Full Sun

(At Least 5 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

6-11 Inches

Mature Spread

6-11 Inches

Growing Zones

3 to 8

Viola sororia, also known as the Common Blue Violets, are native wildflowers at home in a shady woodland garden, streamside planting, or as a groundcover that will tolerate light foot traffic. The dense heart-shaped foliage makes a semi-evergreen mat good at suppressing weeds while making an excellent backdrop for taller bulbs and flowering perennials. The early spring blooms of Common Blue Violet provide much-needed food for native pollinators.

Common Blue Violets are the final touch when planting a woodland-themed garden or a naturalized streamside area. Plant in a large grouping to achieve quick ground cover. Violets can be tucked into empty spots in a mixed planter or even a hanging basket. The foliage makes a great filler and will tolerate full sun and part shade. Viola sororia is native to the eastern half of North America from Quebec to Florida, and is a hardy perennial in just about every state in the lower 48. Deer will sometimes browse violets in bloom but do minimal damage to the plants themselves. 

Common Blue Violet Care

Violets can be planted in almost any type of sun situation. Early morning or late-day full shade is tolerated, although growth will be much more vigorous with at least 4-6 hours of full sun. Well-draining and rich soil also encourages strong growth. Newly planted starts will need regular watering with 1 inch of water once a week. As violets mature, they become drought tolerant and require almost no supplemental watering. Fertilizing is rarely needed for violets. Mulching with 1-2 inches of organic compost will provide nutrients and help the soil retain moisture. 

Common Blue Violet spreads through self-seeding and can be easily kept under control from aggressively spreading through the garden. The best time to divide and transplant violets is early in the spring as the new growth starts. Transplant new divisions as soon as possible to prevent the roots from drying out. No need to deadhead or cut back violets as part of seasonal maintenance. Mulch with 1-2 inches of organic compost in the spring to help the soil retain moisture longer in the summer.

Common Blue Violet Spacing

Common Blue Violets are small sized but can rapidly cover an area if planted in large numbers. The mature size is 6 inches x 6 inches. Place each plant 6 inches apart center on center.