Gentianella amarella
autumn gentian
Europe, temperate Asia, and northern North America
Overview
Gentianella amarella is an erect annual or biennial in the Gentianaceae, growing 2–12 inches (5–30 cm) tall on a single branched stem. In its first year it forms a low rosette; in the second it sends up the flowering stem clothed in opposite, lance-shaped to oval leaves 0.4–1.2 inches (1–3 cm) long. The tubular flowers, 0.5–0.7 inch (12–18 mm) long, are dull purple to lilac, occasionally cream or white, with four or five spreading lobes and a conspicuous fringe of hairs across the throat. Flowers are clustered toward the stem tips and open from July to October, later than most grassland gentians. It grows on dry calcareous grassland, dunes, and short turf across Europe, temperate Asia, and northern North America. As a short-lived plant it depends on open, low-competition ground to regenerate from seed and disappears where turf grows tall or rank. Populations vary widely from year to year with grazing and weather.
Native Range
Native across Europe, temperate Asia, and northern North America, on calcareous grassland, dunes, and short, grazed turf. It ranges through the British Isles, Scandinavia, and the mountains of central Europe.Suggested Uses
Used in calcareous grassland and dune restoration and in conservation plantings on thin, alkaline soils. It suits naturalistic short-turf areas managed by grazing or mowing.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height2" - 1'
Width/Spread2" - 6"
Bloom Information
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
dull purple to lilacFoliage Description
greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-10 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight