Viola purpurea, commonly known as goosefoot violet, is a perennial herb native to a variety of habitats including chaparral, montane woodlands, and alpine meadows across the western United States. It is particularly associated with the Cascade Mountains, coastal ranges, Sierra Nevada, and Rocky Mountains. The species often thrives on serpentine soils, which are typically high in heavy metals and low in essential nutrients, making them inhospitable to many other plant species. Viola purpurea typically grows to a modest height of 2-8 inches (5-20 cm) and features a basal rosette of thick, toothed or ridged oval leaves. From late winter to early summer, it produces bright yellow flowers with distinctive purple streaks, which are quite showy and attract pollinators.

The goosefoot violet is valued for its vibrant flowers and ability to grow in challenging soil conditions, making it a unique addition to rock gardens, native plant gardens, and restoration projects. It is also used in borders and as a ground cover. This violet prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. It requires well-drained soil and moderate water, with reduced watering once established. While it is generally low-maintenance, it can suffer from common violet pests and diseases such as aphids and powdery mildew.CC BY-SA 4.0