The plant grows on open, grassy slopes, in chaparral habitats, and in oak woodlands, from sea level to around 3,280 feet (1,000 m).

The leaves are 1–5.5 centimetres (0.39–2.17 in) long, cordate (heart-shaped) to deltate-ovate (oblong-triangular), scalloped or toothed, and glabrous or hairy.

The fragrant flowers appear in March and April, and are a rich, saturated yellow to yellow-orange, with brown-purple nectar guides on the lower petals.

As with other yellow flowers in the genus Viola, large quantities may cause diarrhea.An herbal tea or tisane can be brewed from the leaves.

[8] When cultivated in colder climates outside its native range where not so hardy, it is most successful when propagated in a cold frame.