Mar 192012
Nuttall’s Violet (Viola nuttallii), aka Yellow Prairie Violet, is one of several varieties of violet that can be found in Colorado. The only thing violet about Nuttall’s violet are the purple stripes on the bright yellow petals (nectar guides) which are there to direct potential pollinators to the good stuff inside.
The leaves and flowers of this violet are edible and are high in vitamins A and C. However, the rhizomes, fruits, and seeds are said to be poisonous, so you need to know what’s what before you start gnawing on a Nuttall’s Violet.
Nuttall's Violet, Deer Creek Canyon Park, April 2011
Nuttall's Violet, South Valley Park, April 2011