Quick answer: Birdfoot violet (Viola pedata) is native to 34 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. No live listing of the true species was found as of 16 Sep 2026.
Photo: User:Kimberlylooney, Wikimedia Commons (CC-BY-SA-3.0)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Part Shade, Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Dry |
| Soil | Dry, rocky, or sandy soils |
| Bloom | Bloom Mar-Jun |
| Height | Up to 1 ft tall |
| Wildlife value | Attracts birds and butterflies, larval host for Regal Fritillary |
Buying it
No live listing of the true wild species was found as of 16 Sep 2026 — that means our last search didn't surface one, not that the plant is unavailable.
No live seed or plant listing found as of 16 Sep 2026. That means our last search didn't surface one — not that the plant is unavailable. Try a regional native-plant nursery.
Quick answers about Birdfoot violet
Where is Birdfoot violet native?
Birdfoot violet (Viola pedata) is native to 34 states across the Northeast, Midwest and South. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Birdfoot violet bloom?
Birdfoot violet blooms Mar-Jun. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Birdfoot violet need?
Light: Part Shade, Shade. Water: Dry. Soil: Dry, rocky, or sandy soils. Mature height: Up to 1 ft tall.
Is Birdfoot violet good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Attracts birds and butterflies, larval host for Regal Fritillary.
Is Birdfoot violet deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Birdfoot violet is drought-tolerant and tolerates shade.
Where can I buy Birdfoot violet?
We haven't found an online listing of the true wild species as of 16 Sep 2026. A regional native-plant nursery or native seed company is your best source; ask for Viola pedata by its scientific name.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Birdfoot violet.
- Eastern red columbine Aquilegia canadensis
- Fragrant sumac Rhus aromatica
- Southern arrowwood Viburnum dentatum
- Black cherry Prunus serotina
- White ash Fraxinus americana
- White oak Quercus alba
Also listed under
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