Downy Yellow Violet

Viola pubescens

Also known as: Smooth Yellow Violet

Native to:
Canada, United States

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Violaceae
Genus:
Viola
Species:
Viola pubescens
USDA Symbol:
VIPU3

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Forb/herb
Height:
30 cm
Light Requirements:
Part Shade
Drought Tolerance:
Medium
Bloom Months:
apr,may,jun
Bloom Colors:
yellow
Ground Cover:
Yes

Wildlife Benefits

Bees:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)
Butterflies & Moths:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:
★★★☆☆ Butterfly & moth species supported by this genus (NWF)
Pollen Specialist Bee Keystone:
★★★★★ Native pollen specialist bee species supported by this genus (NWF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
bees, butterflies, ants

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
rich, well-drained loamy soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
good drainage preferred
Moisture:
consistently moist
Notes:
prefers woodland or forest floor conditions

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 60–90 days
Germination Time:
14–42 days
Notes:
Seeds require cold stratification. Light may enhance germination.

The above propagation data sourced from Claude AI

Pre-treatment: Cold-moist stratification for 30 days at 1–5°C (34–41°F).; then Cold-moist stratification for 60 days.

Notes: Seeds may require light for optimal germination.

Source: Claude AI

ORGHPS Germination Guide: Sow @ 4C for 3 months, then place @ 20C for 3 months.

Source: Ontario Rock Garden & Hardy Plant Society