STATE FLOWER
Illinois's State Flower: The Violet
The violet (Viola) represents Illinois — a small, familiar spring bloom with a surprisingly clever reproductive strategy.
Two Kinds of Flowers, One Plant
Violets produce two distinct flower types: the familiar showy purple blooms that open in spring for pollinators, and small, closed, bud-like flowers that self-pollinate and quietly produce the majority of the plant's seeds. The showy flowers are also edible, and they occasionally turn up candied or fresh as a garnish on desserts and salads.
QUICK FACT
New Jersey and Rhode Island also claim the violet as their state flower, making it one of the most commonly shared state emblems.
