Native to stream banks, open woodlands, and meadows, the Confederate Violet derives its name from the grey/blue of the Confederate soldier's uniform.  With heart-shaped green leaves, the flower is often described as being white with a purple throat and purple striations, but the white is just as often a mottled lavender.  They begin blooming in early to late spring and bloom for at least a month.  These violets grow from four to eight inches tall and spread by rhizomes and seeds and form colonies where happy.  Surprisingly, they often have a faint scent and are suitable for cutting.  Part sun/shade and moist soil preferred in Zones 4-8.