Viola glabella, the stream violet or pioneer violet, is usually found along streams or in moist woods in northeastern Asia and northwestern North America.

Its petals are yellow on both sides, with the exception of dark purple nectar guides on the front of the lower three petals.

The plant is deciduous and dies back completely to its roots during Autumn.

Viola glabella prefers moist, well-drained soil and can grow in part shade.

Acidic and neutral soils are suitable for Viola glabella, which prefers a pH between 6 and 6.5, and becomes chlorotic if the pH is too high.