Prairie Violet
Viola pedatifida
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
3"–8" H × 4"–10" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
AR, AZ, CO, IA and 15 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Prairie violet is a low-growing native wildflower that forms small clumps of deeply lobed leaves. It produces charming purple flowers from April through June, then goes dormant in summer heat.
In an HOA neighborhood
Prairie Violet takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Goes completely dormant in summer leaving bare spots
- Very small size makes it appear weedy in formal settings
- Short bloom period followed by disappearance
Wildlife value
The flowers attract native bees and butterflies during spring blooming season. This plant serves as a host for fritillary butterfly caterpillars.
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 Prairie Violet fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.