Diffusa Wild Violet (Viola diffusa)

Family: Violaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

UPDATE 23/08/11: This name is a synonym of Viola cerasifolia Saint-Hilaire.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Young leaves and flower buds - raw or cooked. When added to soup they thicken it in much the same way as okra. — Young leaves and flower buds - raw or cooked.; When added to soup they thicken it in much the same way as okra.; The flowers of this species are usually purplish or yellowish - some caution is advised if the plant has yellow flowers since these can cause diarrhoea if eaten in large quantities.; A tea can be made from the leaves.

Habitat & North American Range

Wasted slopes, stream edges, sparse forests and roadsides where they are damp and shady. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)