Downy Yellow Violet (Viola pubescens)

Family: Violet Family (Violaceae)

Other Names: Yellow Woodland Violet

Origin: Native

Historic First Bloom Seen: April 10*

GPS For Stand: N 39°04.743' W 84°24.932'

Interesting Facts: Many scientists disagree on the species of this plant. Some think that the Yellow Violet is broken into two seperate species, smooth and downy yellow violet, while others believe that there is only this one species of Yellow Violet, the Downy Yellow Violet or Viola pubescens. All Violet species have five petals, two on the top, two on the side, and one on the bottom that usually has a set of distinctive stripes that act as a "landing pad" for insects. This species occurs sporadically in the deep woodland areas of the preserve.

*Average bloom time is based on a compilation of wildflower bloom times from 1975 to present.