Stream Violet
Viola glabella
Last reviewed: June 2026
Viola glabella (Stream Violet) is a native Pacific Northwest wildflower that blooms yellow flowers from April to June in moist, shaded areas. This deciduous forb thrives in partially shaded woodlands and stream banks across California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, and South Dakota.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
CA, ID, MT, OR and 2 more states
Pollinators
bees, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Stream violet is a delicate woodland perennial that produces cheerful yellow flowers in spring and early summer. This low-growing native violet forms neat clumps with heart-shaped leaves and thrives in partially shaded, moist areas. It goes dormant in late summer, disappearing completely until the following spring.
Growing Stream Violet
Grow Stream Violet in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 4 to 12 inches tall and spread 6 to 12 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Stream Violet takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Disappears completely when dormant, leaving bare spots
- Very small and can look sparse in formal settings
- Requires consistent moisture which may be difficult to maintain
Wildlife value
The flowers attract small native bees and flies during the spring blooming period. Like other violets, it can serve as a host plant for fritillary butterfly caterpillars.
Common questions
- When does Stream Violet bloom?
- Stream Violet produces yellow flowers from April through June, making it an excellent early to mid-season bloomer for woodland gardens.
- What pollinators visit Stream Violet?
- Stream Violet attracts bees and flies as its primary pollinators, supporting native pollinator populations in forest understory habitats.
- Where is Stream Violet native?
- Stream Violet is native to western and northwestern states including California, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, South Dakota, and Washington.
- What growing conditions does Stream Violet prefer?
- This native violet thrives in partial shade to full shade with medium to high moisture levels, making it ideal for woodland gardens and stream-side plantings.
- Is Stream Violet HOA-friendly?
- Stream Violet takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Stream Violet? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz