Missouri violet
Viola missouriensis
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
3"–6" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
MO, IL, IN, KS
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
A low, spreading perennial forb with heart-shaped leaves and small five-petaled violet-purple flowers held just above the foliage in spring. Forms a dense, shade-tolerant groundcover in moist, humus-rich soil.
In an HOA neighborhood
Missouri violet is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: foundation, mid zone, backyard only.
- Can self-seed and spread beyond its original planting area, including into turf
Wildlife value
Host plant for fritillary butterflies.
Foliage is the primary larval host for several fritillary butterfly species, and spring flowers offer early nectar for bees.
Common questions
- How much sun does Missouri violet need?
- Missouri violet grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Missouri violet bloom?
- Missouri violet blooms in March, April, and May.
- Where is Missouri violet native?
- Missouri violet (Viola missouriensis) is native to MO, IL, IN, KS, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What butterflies or moths does Missouri violet host?
- Missouri violet is a larval host plant for fritillary butterflies.
- Is Missouri violet HOA-friendly?
- Missouri violet is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Missouri violet fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.