Common Blue Violet

Common Blue Violet

Viola soraria

The Common Blue Violet is actually quite common.  Some years my yard is full of them, often in big clumps.  Some years, last year actually, they were almost non-existent.  I'm sure it has to do with the amount of rain.  Last year was a very weird weather year.

The young leaves and flowers are edible.  There aren't many calories, but the flowers add a cute touch to a salad.  In fact, some people candy them by brushing with egg whites and covering with sugar.  Seems like a lot of trouble to me.



Some leaves are heart shaped, some are more kidney shaped

The plants often grow in big clumps in untended yards