Known as the Prairie state and home to Chicago, Illinois is an essential Midwest state. Its diverse landscapes range from the highrises lining the shores of Lake Michigan to the rolling farm fields filled with corn and soybeans. But have you ever wondered what is the state flower of Illinois?
Although many flowers are present in the state, the violet has claimed the title of Illinois state flower. In this article, we’ll explore more about this flower and explain how to grow it at home.
History of the Illinois State Flower
While you may think politicians, gardeners, or botanists chose the Illinois state flower, this task fell to a more innocent group of people. In 1907, the state’s school children voted on the state flower. They chose the violet that graced yards and forests near their homes. The wild rose came in second and goldenrod was third. The violet was made the official Illinois state flower in 1908.
The kids didn’t choose a specific violet species but rather simplified it to the violet (Viola) genus. Many violet species are found throughout the state, but the common blue violet (Viola sororia) is one of the most common. However, white, yellow, and purple violets also exist in Illinois.
About the Violet
When people say the term violet, they may be referring to any of the close to 700 species in the violet genus, Viola. Since the word violet also refers to a purple color, it makes sense that many people think all violets are purple. However, you can find white, yellow, and magenta violets.
Since there are so many types of violets, there’s a decent amount of variety between different species. Some are annuals while others are perennials. Most of the plants grow as short herbaceous plants, but some can grow into large herbaceous plants or semi-woody shrubs. The majority of violets grow in temperate areas, including much of North America.
Despite their difference, violets share a few characteristics. The plants grow from rhizomes, with leaves and flowers appearing on separate stems. The leaves are often heart-shaped and feature elongated veins. The flowers are irregularly shaped and often feature four upright-facing petals and one large downward-facing petal.
Violets can reproduce by seeds and rhizomes. They regularly spread throughout areas including patchy lawns and forest edges.
Types of Violets
There are close to 700 violet species as well as hybrids like pansies and violas. Here are a few violet species you can find growing in Illinois.
Common blue violet (Viola sororia): You can find this purple violet growing in yards and wooded areas throughout Illinois. It’s also known as the dooryard violet.
Prairie violet (Viola pedatifida): Although it was once found throughout Illinois, this species is now quite rare. If you’re lucky, you can find it growing in remnants of rich prairie soil in full sun.
Downy yellow violet (Viola pubescens): This violet has bright yellow flowers with streaks of deep purple. It can grow up to a foot tall.
How to Grow and Care for Violets
Since there are so many different types of violets, the ideal care varies between species. However, following these care tips will keep most violets happy.
Choose Full Sun to Partial Shade
Most violets will grow well in either a bright, sunny area or a place that receives sun half of the day. Dappled light that occurs in some forests also works for violets. Just avoid planting these flowers in full shade.
Pay Attention to the Soil
Violets can grow well in various types of soil, but they prefer high organic matter. Mixing in a few shovels of compost into the soil will increase the amount of soil organic matter and keep your violets happy. You don’t have to be concerned about the soil texture, but make sure it’s well-draining.
Be Aware of Spread
Since violets can spread by both seeds and rhizomes, don’t be surprised if you end up with more plants than you started with. Fortunately, unwanted violets are easy to remove by hand. When you dig up the plants, make sure to fully remove the underground rhizomes since they will sprout into new plants if left behind.
Learn More About State Flowers
Now that you know about the Illinois state flower, you can learn about the other special blooms. We’ve put together a full list of state flowers to help you get started. Next, you can hone in on specific states; for example, you can read an article to learn about the state flower of California.
And when it comes time to add flowers to your home or send a bouquet to someone you love, you can call on The Bouqs for flower delivery! We carry a wide variety of seasonal arrangements, houseplants, and popular bouquets that you can order to your door.
Shop All
