Contents
Description
Gentiana Acaulis, commonly known as stemless gentian, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Gentianaceae family. This plant is native to the alpine regions of central and southern Europe, and it is characterized by its vibrant blue flowers that bloom in late summer and early fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Gentianaceae |
| Genus | Gentiana |
Appearance
Gentiana Acaulis is a low-growing plant that reaches an average height of 15-20 cm. It has a basal rosette of lance-shaped leaves that are up to 10 cm long. The flowers are funnel-shaped, with five petals that are a vibrant blue color. The flowers are usually 3-4 cm wide and are borne singly at the end of a stem that arises from the center of the rosette.
Care Guide
Water: Gentiana Acaulis prefers moist soil, so regular watering is necessary. However, the plant does not tolerate waterlogged soil, so make sure the soil is well-drained.
Fertilization: This plant does not require much fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in early spring is sufficient.
Soil: Gentiana Acaulis grows best in well-drained, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: This plant thrives in full sun or partial shade. However, it does not tolerate hot, dry conditions and may require some shade during the hottest part of the day.
Hardiness Zones: Gentiana Acaulis is hardy in USDA Zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gentiana Acaulis is generally disease-free, but it may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. Pests such as aphids and slugs may also affect this plant.
Habitat
Gentiana Acaulis is native to the alpine regions of central and southern Europe, where it grows in rocky or gravelly soil in meadows and on slopes. It prefers cool, moist conditions and is adapted to survive harsh alpine winters.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Gentiana Acaulis a good plant for a rock garden?
A: Yes, Gentiana Acaulis is an excellent choice for a rock garden due to its low-growing habit and preference for well-drained soil.
Q: What is the best time to plant Gentiana Acaulis?
A: The best time to plant Gentiana Acaulis is in the spring, after the danger of frost has passed.
Q: Can Gentiana Acaulis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Gentiana Acaulis can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and the soil is well-drained.
Q: How often should Gentiana Acaulis be fertilized?
A: Gentiana Acaulis does not require much fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in early spring is sufficient.
Related Plants
- Gentiana Verna
- Gentiana Clusii
- Gentiana Acaulis
- Gentiana Lutea
References
- “Gentiana acaulis – Plant Finder.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j760.
- “Gentiana acaulis.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 31 Oct. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gentiana_acaulis.
- “Stemless Gentian (Gentiana Acaulis) Care Guide.” GardenTabs.com, 5 Oct. 2021, www.gardentabs.com/gentiana-acaulis/.
