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Description
Gentiana algida, commonly known as the snow gentian, is a species of flowering plant in the family Gentianaceae. It is a small, low-growing perennial herb that is native to high elevations in the mountains of Europe and Asia. The plant is characterized by its bright blue or purple trumpet-shaped flowers, which bloom in late summer and early fall. The flowers are surrounded by glossy, dark-green leaves that form a rosette at the base of the stem.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Dicotyledonous |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Gentianaceae |
| Genus | Gentiana |
Appearance
The snow gentian is a compact plant that typically grows to a height of 5-10 cm. The stems are hairy and slender, and the leaves are shiny and dark green. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and range in color from bright blue to purple. They measure approximately 2.5 cm in diameter and are surrounded by a five-lobed calyx. The plant blooms from late summer to early fall, and the flowers last for several weeks.
Care Guide
The snow gentian is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-drained soil and moderate moisture. It is best grown in full sun to partial shade and can tolerate temperatures as low as -34 degrees Celsius. The plant does not require fertilization, but a light application of compost or organic fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth.
Water
The snow gentian prefers moderate moisture and should be watered regularly. However, it is important not to overwater the plant, as it is susceptible to root rot.
Fertilization
The snow gentian does not require fertilization, but a light application of compost or organic fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth.
Soil
The snow gentian prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil types. However, it is important to ensure that the soil is not too wet, as the plant is susceptible to root rot.
Sunlight
The snow gentian prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate temperatures as low as -34 degrees Celsius.
Hardiness Zones
The snow gentian is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The snow gentian is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it is susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Additionally, the plant may be attacked by slugs and snails, which can be controlled with organic slug bait or by handpicking.
Habitat
The snow gentian is native to high elevations in the mountains of Europe and Asia. It grows in alpine meadows and rocky slopes, often in association with other alpine plants.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the snow gentian a good plant for a rock garden?
A: Yes, the snow gentian is an excellent choice for a rock garden. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil types.
Q: How often should I water my snow gentian?
A: The snow gentian prefers moderate moisture and should be watered regularly. However, it is important not to overwater the plant, as it is susceptible to root rot.
Q: What is the blooming season for the snow gentian?
A: The snow gentian blooms from late summer to early fall.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the snow gentian?
A: The snow gentian is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Related Plants
- Gentiana acaulis
- Gentiana clusii
- Gentiana lutea
- Gentiana purpurea
References
- Flora of North America: Gentiana algida
- RHS: Gentiana algida
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Gentiana algida
