Ground ivy and violet ID?

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awarner

Nomad
Apr 14, 2012
487
4
Southampton, Hampshire
Came across a couple of flowers recently, the first I am a little confused with as it looks like bugle'ish but wondering if its ground ivy but will need to check the ground cover, very low growing only about 10cm.
The second appears to be a violet of some sort but seems more purple than blue based on the images I have seen in books etc.

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Not sure why the photos did not rotate correctly so apologies for having to tilt your head/monitor to view the flowers correctly.
 
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Muddypaws

Full Member
Jan 23, 2009
1,094
313
Southampton
I agree the first is ground ivy. For avoidance of doubt, crush the foliage - it is wonderfully aromatic. It used to be used to clarify and flavour beer, before the widespread use of hops, and is sometimes known as "alehoof"

The violet is tricky. If you can get down to the flower and smell it it might help with the ID, as only the sweet violet is scented. If unscented then it is a dog violet, but there are several types of dog violet. Common dog violet being the most likely.
 

awarner

Nomad
Apr 14, 2012
487
4
Southampton, Hampshire
No smell from the violet surprised haw aromatic the ground ivy is.
Here's a side view of violet as requested. Image not in the correct rotation.
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