The branching, leafy, slightly angular stalk is shining near the foot, but hairy above, and grows from 5 to 12 inches high. It is light green. Near the foot a small sheathing leaf may be observed.
The leaf is large, usually broader than it is long, and varying in form from a round-pointed to a sharp-pointed shape; its ribs show plainly underneath, its margin is slightly notched, and the surface is soft and downy to the touch; in color, a clear green, lighter underneath. The leaves, on their long, grooved stems, grow alternately, with a pair of up-pointing little wings at the joint.
The lower petal of the flower is scoop-shaped, shallow and short, and notched into two scallops at the tip, with a very short spur; the 4 other petals are rounding and nearly equal in size. In color, a pure golden-yellow, with many dark markings on the lower petal, and fainter lines on the others. The single flowers grow on slender stems from the angles of the leaves.
The branches are wide-spreading, and the flower-stem springs away from the leaves with a decided gesture, nor does the Yellow Violet bend its head; the leaves are generally flat in manner of growth save for the little scoop at the stem. A few separate leaves on independent stems rise about the foot of the flowering stalk. This plant bears a profusion of blossoms, and continues to flower for a considerable time.
DOWNY YELLOW VIOLET: V. pubescens.
| Canada Violet. | Viola Canadensis. |
Found in May, and again less profusely in August, in forests and woodlands to the north, or in high regions.
The branching, leafy stalk varies from 6 inches to 2 feet in height; it is smooth to the touch. Light green in color.
The heart-shaped leaf with its tapering point has a strong midrib, a slightly notched and wavy margin, and a thin, firm texture; it is a clear green color. The leaves, on stems, grow alternately, with a pair of little wings at the stalk; they are gathered close at the ends of the branches.