Violet, Yellow - Viola pubescens

Viola pubescens, also known as Viola eriocarpa, Smooth Yellow Violet, Downy Yellow Violet, or simply Yellow Violet, is a perennial wildflower native to Michigan and the Upper Peninsula. Ours tend towards the characteristics of Viola eriocarpa, Smooth Yellow Violet, but Michigan Flora recognizes only one yellow species. They seem a touch defensive about this decision and describe it as highly variable. When Michigan Flora recognizes the difference, so will we. 
 
In the meantime, this is a short, attractive inhabitant of moist, rich woodlands. Violets are the host plants for Fritillary butterflies and other important insects, and they provide our native pollinators with early-season food. Height range is 4 to 14 inches, and those exhibiting the characteristics of V. eriocarpa tend to be on the taller side. The bloom time is early, between April and June, depending on the year. Sometimes a fall bloom occurs as well. This violet prefers moist, cool soil with dappled to deeper shade.