Knowledgebase

Native Violet #866244

Asked April 29, 2024, 9:03 AM EDT

How to identify a native common violet (viola sororia) versus the non native sweet violet (viola odorata), besides trying to smell it! Thank you.

Summit County Ohio

Expert Response

Good luck with that - they are very similar! There ae a few differences, though: Viola odorata is not as commonly found as Viola sonoria, and is smaller, with leaves 1-3" wide compared to sonoria's 5" leaves. Its leaves are more rounded, smoother, and darker green, and its flowers are purple/lavender only. Sonoria can have Purple/lavender, pink, blue, or white flowers. Sonoria has a clumping habit, while odorata clumps, creeps, and spreads. And, of course, odorata has a sweet perfume.  

Hope this helps! 

Loading ...