The wood violet is the official state flower of Wisconsin — a small purple woodland bloom chosen by the state’s schoolchildren.

• Official flower: Wood violet
• Scientific name: Viola sororia
• Year adopted: 1909
• Native range: eastern North America

About the wood violet

Wisconsin’s schoolchildren voted for the wood violet on Arbor Day, and it was adopted in 1909. The low-growing plant carries heart-shaped leaves and delicate five-petaled purple flowers that appear across the state each spring.

Where it grows

The wood violet grows throughout Wisconsin in woodlands, meadows, and lawns, blooming in spring.

Wisconsin state flower FAQs

What is the state flower of Wisconsin?

Wisconsin’s state flower is the wood violet (Viola sororia), which it adopted in 1909.

When did Wisconsin adopt its state flower?

Wisconsin designated the wood violet as its official state flower in 1909.

Who chose Wisconsin’s state flower?

Wisconsin’s schoolchildren selected the wood violet in a vote, and the state made it official in 1909.

Explore more

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