I don't think it is aviolet..

A doronic?

Can't be certain, John.

There are a few violets (a Japanese one comes vaguely to mind) with leaves somewhat like that, but on balance I would suspect, like Nathalie, it is not a violet. Garlic mustard is a possibility, as is Nathalie's suggestion of Doronicum. Maybe even a Lunaria (Honesty).

One factor which should help solve the problem is the presence of a pair of stipules at the base of each leaf. Stipules are present on every species of violet, though they vary considerably in size and shape. They may be a tiny papery triangle pressed around the main stem and hard to see because of other leaf stems, or they may be a couple of centimetres long, green and toothed or somewhat divided; or anywhere in between. There are other features that can be used, but as a first pass: no stipules, no violet.

The plant in the picture is definitely Garlic Mustard (Alliaria officinalis). It is very nice to eat if you get the leaves young, before they have the chance to harden up and get very bitter, usually before the flower spikes emerge.

Hi there... I have some of these in my yard too... but do not know what it is. I let it grow until late summer and it got very big, but hasnt flowered so I pulled it... now have new ones coming up. If you discover what it is for sure, I would be happy to know... :o) good luck! Bronwyn

Bronwyn:- - - - - Recent events have convinced me that this IS garlic mustard. In the area where I have many foot high wild violets growing the deer have this week stripped off all their leaves. The only plant left - untouched - is the 'garlic mustard'!

That definitely is garlic mustard. It is an agreesive invasive species in most of the eastern US. Pull it out!

Garlic mustard spreads primarily by seeds....... I got rid of an infestation by diligently deadheading its flowers before they went to seed and then pulling the plants...... (be sure to throw away the plants, not put them in your yard....) You may have to do this for a few years, but it worked for me after one....... P.S. garlic mustard's easy to identify by the garlic/spicy/mustardy smelling/tasting leaves!!!!! :) ...........

It's on the noxious weed list here.

Can you eat this? What can this be used for??

You can make a salsa from the chopped leaves. I'm sorry but I lost the recipe or just use it as an herb if you like the taste.

Don't hesitate to get rid of it or it will take over.

It looks like creeping charlie to me.