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Description
Gentiana Septemfida, also known as the Star Gentian, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Gentianaceae family. It is native to Europe and grows in mountain meadows, rocky slopes, and alpine pastures. This plant can grow up to 50cm in height and has a spread of 30cm. Gentiana Septemfida blooms in late summer and early fall, producing bright blue, star-shaped flowers that are 4-5cm in diameter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Gentianaceae |
| Genus | Gentiana |
Appearance
Gentiana Septemfida has lance-shaped, dark green leaves that grow in a basal rosette. The stems are erect and sturdy, with multiple branches that hold the flowers. The flowers are bright blue with a yellow center and have five pointed petals that form a star shape. The blooming period is from August to September, and the flowers can last for up to three weeks. The plant also produces brown seed capsules that contain numerous small seeds.
Care Guide
Gentiana Septemfida requires moderate maintenance and care. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:- Water: The plant prefers moist soil but doesn’t like standing water. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It thrives in a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH.- Sunlight: Gentiana Septemfida prefers partial shade to full sun. However, it can’t tolerate extreme heat, so make sure to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gentiana Septemfida is relatively pest and disease-free. However, here are some common problems:- Root rot: Caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil.- Leaf spot: Caused by fungal infections.- Aphids: Small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the plant.- Slugs and snails: Can cause damage to leaves and flowers.
Habitat
Gentiana Septemfida is native to Europe and grows in mountain meadows, rocky slopes, and alpine pastures. It thrives in well-draining soil and prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH. The plant can tolerate cold temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Gentiana Septemfida grow in full sun?
A: Yes, Gentiana Septemfida can grow in full sun, but it can’t tolerate extreme heat, so provide some shade during the hottest part of the day.Q: How often should I water Gentiana Septemfida?
A: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.Q: What is the blooming period of Gentiana Septemfida?
A: Gentiana Septemfida blooms from August to September and can last for up to three weeks.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Gentiana Septemfida?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Related Plants
– Gentiana Acaulis- Gentiana Andrewsii- Gentiana Asclepiadea- Gentiana Clusii- Gentiana Lutea
References
– “Gentiana Septemfida.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c492.- “Gentiana Septemfida.” Plant Finder, www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/gentiana-septemfida-star-gentian.
