Canada Violet

J.S. Peterson @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

Thomas G. Barnes @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database / Barnes, T.G., and S.W. Francis. 2004. Wildflowers and ferns of Kentucky. University Press of Kentucky.

USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database / Britton, N.L., and A. Brown. 1913. An illustrated flora of the northern United States, Canada and the British Possessions. 3 vols. Charles Scribner's Sons, New York. Vol. 2: 560.

Names: Canada Violet (English); Viola canadensis (Latin); Violette du Canada (French)

Habitat and Origin: Can be found in woodlands and forests all over North America.

Characteristics: Perennial plant with small white flowers with yellow throats and short thick stems. Leaves are heart shaped and alternating.

Edible Portion: Leaves and flowers can be eaten raw or cooked or made into tea.

Optimal Growing Conditions: Grows best in rich, well drained, moist soils and partial sun to no sun.

Aboriginal Peoples Uses: Tea made from the roots of the plant was used to treat bladder pain. The roots and leaves have also been used to induce vomiting or crushed and applied to skin abraisions or boils.