This species of violet was originally selected by the mt. Cuba Center from a wild population in Alabama.  It doesn't spread like many other violet species.

It prefers partial shade, dappled sunlight, or full shade and does well under tree canopies.  It thrives best in well-drained, organic-rich, neutral to alkaline soils, and is highly tolerant of calcareous or rocky soil condiditons.

It needs average to moist soil.  This species exhibits impressive drought tolerance once fully established, but extremem dryness will limiti its ability to spread and form a solid mat.

Host plant for Fritillary butterflies, and vital early nectar source for pollinators.