Early blue violets are one of the first flowers you’ll see in spring. They are found, often in clusters, in dry, sandy soil at lower elevations.

Like many violets, the early blue can produce two types of flowers. Spring blossoms are large and showy to attract pollinating insects. However, if pollination doesn’t occur, the plant will flower a second time, during the summer. Summer flowers never open, have no petals, and grow close to the ground. These flowers self pollinate and are the plant’s insurance plan for reproduction. Taking no chances on bug romances, Violet’s no fool.

Photo by Miguel Vieira – http://www.flickr.com/photos/miguelvieira/4836616228/