The viola pinnata

"The term ""pinnata"" applied to this violet (Viola pinnata) refers to the deeply-cut lobe shape leaves, a feature that is only observed in this species in Vanoise. It grows on scorched grasslands, clear forests rocks, preferably on limestone, gypsum and on well-exposed slopes (south, south-east). In France, it is listed in just four alpine departments from Savoy to the Alpes-Maritimes. The Savoyard towns are limited to five Tarentaise municipalities. Historical records are still to be found in Maurienne. It’s in the valley of Prariond that the highest known populations live at 2,610 metres in altitude! Its rarity justifies its protection nationwide."