Viola pratincola, commonly known as Northern Bog Violet, is an herbaceous perennial native to moist meadows, open woods, and wetland margins across North America. It is particularly adapted to cool, damp environments, often found in the understory of deciduous forests or along stream banks. This plant was named by Edward Lee Greene in 1896, with its specific epithet referring to the kidney-shaped leaves. Typically, it reaches modest heights of 2-6 inches (5-15 cm) and spreads 3-8 inches (7-20 cm) wide. The Northern Bog Violet is characterized by its heart-shaped leaves and vibrant violet flowers that bloom in the spring, providing a showy display that attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

The Northern Bog Violet is valued for its ornamental flowers and its ability to thrive in wet, shady gardens, making it suitable for rain gardens, woodland gardens, and naturalized areas. It prefers consistently moist soils, partial to full shade, and cool temperatures. While it is not commonly used in culinary or medicinal applications, it does hold cultural significance for the Ramah Navajo as a ceremonial emetic. Gardeners should be aware that it may require protection in areas where it is endangered or threatened. Despite its beauty, it is not widely cultivated, likely due to its specific habitat requirements and conservation status.CC BY-SA 4.0