“Bird’s Foot Violet, a Pollinator’s Pansy”

Viola pedata (Bird’s Foot Violet) is named for leaves shaped like birds’ feet. It matures to 3″ in height and has purple flowers with orange centers. Bird’s Foot Violet prefers drier soil conditions; preferably sandy soils, and grows best in full sun to partial shade.Viola pedata is one of the larval host plants for the Edward’s Fritillary butterfly, Great Spangled Fritillary butterfly, the Mormon Fritillary butterfly, the Coronis Fritillary butterfly, and the Variegated Fritillary butterfly.

Bird’s Foot Violet is a bit more fussy than the rest of the violets, but is well worth the trouble! The soil needed for Viola pedata must be well-drained, otherwise the plant could rot. Viola pedata needs to be kept free of weeds and other aggressive plants so as not to be crowded out but, given space, it will self-seed readily. Spring is the typical bloom time, but because of the early bloom time, it’s not uncommon to see many Viola species bloom again in the early Fall. (Source: Prairie Moon Nursery)

Pollination Facts:

Viola pedata is pollinated primarily by long-tongued bees and butterflies. Because its large pansy-like flowers are held flat and facing upward, they are much easier for insects to land on than other violet species. 

• Primary Pollinators: The blooms are visited by bumblebees, solitary bees, skippers, and various small butterflies seeking nectar. 
• Pollination Mechanism: Insects probing for nectar must insert their proboscis into a petal spur, which rubs against the flower’s style, depositing or picking up pollen in the process. 
• No Runners: Unlike many common violet species that spread via underground runners, Bird’s-foot violet reproduces strictly through seeds.
• Ant Seed Dispersal: Once fertilized, the plant ejects its seeds several feet away. The seeds feature a sugary, lipid-rich coating called an elaiosome that attracts ants, which carry the seeds back to their nests and aid in natural propagation. 
• Ecological Importance: This plant is an exclusive host and vital food source for the larvae of butterfly species listed and linked above. 

Who is in this piece?

This piece features the Great Spangled Fritillary butterfly (upper left and right), a bumblebee (center left), two native Mining/Digger bee (center and far center left), and a Cobweb Skipper butterfly (upper far right).