Species: glabella means 'smooth' (glabrous, leaves neither waxy or sticky)
aka Smooth Violet, Pioneer Violet, Yellow Wood Violet, and in Blackwell Tall Yellow Violet. The stems can rise 8" - 12" (20 - 30 cm), although sources vary on this - those in Rainier seem quite low. There are one to three flowers per stem and are small, a little over 1/2", with two upper and two lateral petals which overlap and a separate larger lower petal. The blossom attracts flying insects with pretty purple guide lines on the lower three petals and white beards on the lateral two (ref. Strickler). Very common in moist woods, streambanks, up to 5,000' elevation.
Trail Notes:
Trail/Hike: WLT/Paradise River
Date: June 24, 2006
Location: midway between Longmire and Nisqually River crossing (photo)
