Weed Common violets
Scientific Name Viola spp.
Family Violet family (Violaceae)
Life Cycle Variable group with many species of winter annual or perennial plants
Reproduction Method All can reproduce by seed and the perennial types can also reproduce by creeping rhizomes.
Appearance Common violets are low-growing, up to 12" tall, and can form large, dense patches by spreading rhizomes and fibrous root system.
Leaves Common violet leaves are kidney-shaped to broadly oval with heart-shaped bases. They are 2 to 4 inches wide, often cupped, with margins that are often toothed. They emerge from the base of the plant on long, slender, slightly hairy petioles.
Flowers Flowers of common violets are pansy-like, white to blue to purple, and also yellow. The side petals are hairy near the base. Common violet flowers appear early in spring.
Occurrence These weeds are very shade-tolerant and occur in moist, shady, fertile sites. They are most obvious in spring and autumn when conditions are cool.
Non Chemical Control To control common violets without chemicals, maintain turf health and density through proper culture, reduce shade, and allow soil to dry to improve turf competitive advantage.
Chemical Control
Application Period Apply postemergence herbicides in mid spring to early summer and/or mid to late autumn during active growth. Common violets are difficult to control in turf settings.
Active Ingredient in Labeled Products

Preemergent

Postemergent

  • None labeled at present
  • 2,4-D
  • chlorsulfuron*
  • clopyralid
  • dicamba
  • MCPA
  • triclopyr
*not on tall fescue or ryegrass turf
Notes

(Click on Image to Enlarge and Sharpen Photograph)

Violet immature plant

Violet in bloom

Violet in turf

Violet mature plant

Violets in white bloom

Violets in turf close

Confused?? Look-a-Likes Common violets are often times confused with ground ivy and mallow. Click here for further clarification.