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Description
Gentiana Pennelliana, commonly known as Pennell’s gentian, is a flowering plant species belonging to the Gentianaceae family. It is a perennial herb that grows up to 60 cm tall and is native to eastern North America. The plant produces a basal rosette of leaves, from which a single flowering stem emerges. The flowers are tubular, deep blue, and have five petals that are fused at the base. The bloom time for Gentiana Pennelliana is from August to September.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Gentianaceae |
| Genus | Gentiana |
Appearance
The leaves of Gentiana Pennelliana are lance-shaped, glossy, and up to 10 cm long. The stem is smooth and unbranched, and the flowers are arranged in terminal clusters. The plant has a deep taproot, which makes it difficult to transplant. The flowers are a vibrant blue hue, but in some cases, they may appear purple or violet. The petals are slightly fringed, and the flowers are generally 4-5 cm long.
Care Guide
Gentiana Pennelliana requires specific care to thrive. Here are some tips:
- Water: The plant requires regular watering, and the soil should be moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant once or twice a week, depending on the weather.
- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer for the plant during the growing season. Apply the fertilizer once a month.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained, acidic soil with a pH of 4.5 to 5.5. Ensure the soil is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Gentiana Pennelliana prefers full sun exposure, but it can also grow in partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy to USDA zones 5 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gentiana Pennelliana is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:
- Aphids: These small insects suck the sap from the plant and can cause deformation or stunted growth.
- Slugs and snails: These pests can damage the leaves and flowers of Gentiana Pennelliana.
- Root rot: Overwatering or poorly-drained soil can cause root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
- Crown rot: This disease is caused by fungal infection and can lead to wilting and death of the plant.
Habitat
Gentiana Pennelliana is native to eastern North America, where it grows in wet meadows, bogs, and swampy areas. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun exposure. It can also tolerate partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q. What is the bloom time for Gentiana Pennelliana?
A. The bloom time for Gentiana Pennelliana is from August to September.Q. What is the hardiness zone for Gentiana Pennelliana?
A. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 5 to 8.Q. What type of soil does Gentiana Pennelliana prefer?
A. The plant prefers well-drained, acidic soil with a pH of 4.5 to 5.5.Q. What pests and diseases are common in Gentiana Pennelliana?
A. Gentiana Pennelliana is susceptible to aphids, slugs, snails, root rot, and crown rot.
Related Plants
- Gentiana Andrewsii
- Gentiana Clusii
- Gentiana Crinita
- Gentiana Lutea
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Gentiana Pennelliana. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j360
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Gentiana Pennelliana. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=GEPE11
