Canadian Violet – Viola canadensis

 

Nomenclature:

  • Viola canadensis
  • Family: Violet (Violaceae)

 

Botany and Ecology:

  • Habitat: woods
  • Height: 8-16 inches
  • Flower size: 3/4 to 1 inch across
  • Flower color: white
  • Flowering time: April to June
  • Distribution:

o       United States: AK, AL, AR, AZ, CO, CT, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY

o       Canada: AB, BC, MB, NB, NF, NS, NT, ON, QC, SK, YT

 

Uses:

  • Edible:

o       Young leaves and flower buds can be added to soup adding flavor and thickening properties

o       Leaves used as tea substitutes

  • Medicinal:

o       Tea made from the roots can be used to treat bladder pain

o       Roots and leaves can be poulticed and used to treat skin abrasions and boils

 

Conservation:

 

Markets and Vendors:

 

Sources: