Violets

Dog violets (Viola riviniana) are one of the most common and widespread wildflowers in the UK, often bringing a splash of purple to woodlands, grasslands, and hedgerows from April to June. While they may look similar to other violets, they have a unique, largely unsung role in nature.

Here are some interesting facts about dog violets:

• They are Scentless: Unlike their cousin, the Sweet Violet (Viola odorata), dog violets do not have a scent. In old English, "dog" was often used as a prefix to describe a wild species that was inferior to, or lacked the pleasant qualities of, a similar cultivated or well-known plant, implying they were only good for "dogs".

• A Crucial Butterfly Food Source: The leaves of the common dog violet are essential food for the caterpillars of several threatened fritillary butterflies, including the Small pearl-bordered, Pearl-bordered, Silver-washed, and High brown fritillaries.

• They Thrive with Light: Dog violets, particularly the Early Dog-violet, are indicators of ancient woodland, and they respond to management techniques like coppicing (cutting back trees) with a massive surge in growth, sometimes increasing 40-fold in number.

• Distinctive "Notched" Spurs: A key identification feature of the Common Dog-violet is its pale-coloured spur (the projection behind the flower), which is notched or furrowed at the tip.

• They Are Edible: Both the leaves and flowers of the dog violet are safe to eat. They can be used as a garnish or added to salads, and contain vitamins A and C.

• A Magical Literature Link: The "nodding violet" mentioned in Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream (where Titania sleeps) is thought to be the dog violet.

• They Are "Forger's" Favorites: Because they can grow almost anywhere except in very acid or wet soil, they are widely distributed, and you can see them on rocky cliffs, in woodlands, and in pastures. 

Identification Summary:

• Flowers: Pale purple-blue with a paler (almost white) spur.

• Leaves: Heart-shaped.

• Scent: None.

• Habitat: Very common in woods, hedges, and grassy banks.