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Description
Gentiana Linearis, commonly known as Narrowleaf Gentian or Linear-leaved Gentian, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Gentianaceae family. This plant is native to North America and can be found growing in wet meadows, bogs, and marshes. It has a stunning blue flower that blooms in late summer and early fall, making it a popular choice for gardeners and horticulturists.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Gentianaceae |
| Genus | Gentiana |
Appearance
Gentiana Linearis has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that grow up to 6 inches long and 1 inch wide. The stem of this plant can reach up to 2 feet tall and bears one to several blue flowers at the top. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and about 1 inch long. They have a deep blue color and are often compared to the color of the sky. The plant blooms in late summer and early fall and attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Care Guide
Gentiana Linearis is relatively easy to care for and can thrive in most growing conditions. Here are some tips to help you care for your Narrowleaf Gentian:
- Water: This plant prefers consistently moist soil. Water it regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilization: Gentiana Linearis does not require much fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining, acidic soil. If your soil is not acidic, add some peat moss or sulfur to lower the pH level.
- Sunlight: Gentiana Linearis prefers partial shade to full sun. In hotter climates, it may benefit from some afternoon shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gentiana Linearis is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet for prolonged periods. To prevent this, make sure to plant it in well-draining soil and water it only when necessary.
Habitat
Gentiana Linearis is native to North America and can be found growing in wet meadows, bogs, and marshes. It prefers moist soil and partial shade, but can also tolerate full sun in cooler climates. This plant is an important source of nectar for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Gentiana Linearis?
A: This plant prefers consistently moist soil. Water it regularly, especially during dry spells.
Q: What is the best soil for Gentiana Linearis?
A: This plant prefers well-draining, acidic soil. If your soil is not acidic, add some peat moss or sulfur to lower the pH level.
Q: When does Gentiana Linearis bloom?
A: This plant blooms in late summer and early fall.
Q: What are the hardiness zones for Gentiana Linearis?
A: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Related Plants
- Gentiana Andrewsii
- Gentiana Clusii
- Gentiana Lutea
- Gentiana Puberulenta
- Gentiana Saponaria
References
- “Gentiana Linearis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d620.
- “Gentiana Linearis.” Plant Database. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=GELI.
- “Narrowleaf Gentian.” Wildflower Center. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=GELI.
