The common name comes from the shape of the leaves, they resemble a birds foot. Lavender-blue or bi-colored flowers with orange anthers appear from early to late spring and may recur in fall. It occurs naturally in rocky, open woods, sandy prairies & pine lands.

This plant needs well-drained soils and prefers sandy or gravelly soil with a somewhat acidpH in full sun but will tolerate part shade. It doesn't spread by stolons but may reseed in ideal conditions. This viola may be more difficult to grow than most.