Edge/ European Field Pansy

COMMON NAME: European Field Pansy

OTHER COMMON NAME(S): Wild Pansy

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Viola arvensis

FAMILY: Violaceae

COMMUNITY: Edge

STATUS: Naturalized  from Europe

LIFESPAN: Perennial

HEIGHT: to 18 inches

FLOWERING TIME: Late April to late July

FRUITING TIME: June to September

DISTRIBUTION: Canada to Virginia ~ In NJ, on Piedmont, the Coastal Plain and in Cape May County

IDENTIFYING CHARACTERISTICS: Leaves are simple and alternate, variable with the lowest oval and upper elliptical ~ Flowers pale yellow pedals ~ Fruits capsules

GENERAL INFORMATION: This family (Violaceae) commonly called the Violet Family consists of 23 genera and 830 species of herbs, shrubs, lianas and small trees.  Some species are cultivated for their oils which are used in flavorings and to make scents. Pansy is from the French name pensee meaning “thought”.

Please note: While harvesting wild berries/fruit is permitted at Island Beach State Park, visitors must adhere to park regulations at all times and must not damage vegetation or go off designated trails.  This information is presented for educational purposes.