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Description
Gentianella serotina, commonly known as autumn dwarf gentian or late flowering gentian, is a perennial herbaceous plant in the Gentianaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found growing in moist meadows, open woods, and rocky slopes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Gentianaceae |
| Genus | Gentianella |
Appearance
Gentianella serotina grows up to 15-30 cm in height and has a basal rosette of leaves. The leaves are lance-shaped and grow up to 7 cm long. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and can be blue, purple, or pink in color. They bloom from late summer to early fall and can last up to 5 weeks. The plant produces small, capsule-like fruits that contain numerous tiny seeds.
Care Guide
Gentianella serotina is relatively easy to care for and can be grown in a variety of conditions. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining, loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
- Sunlight: Gentianella serotina prefers partial shade to full sun.
- Hardiness Zones: It can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gentianella serotina is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Regularly inspect the plant and treat any infestations promptly with an appropriate pesticide or fungicide.
Habitat
Gentianella serotina is native to North America and can be found growing in moist meadows, open woods, and rocky slopes. It prefers well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Gentianella serotina a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Gentianella serotina is relatively easy to care for and can be grown in a variety of conditions.
Q: What is the best time to plant Gentianella serotina?
A: The best time to plant Gentianella serotina is in the spring or fall.
Q: Can Gentianella serotina be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Gentianella serotina can be grown in containers as long as they have good drainage.
Q: Is Gentianella serotina toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence to suggest that Gentianella serotina is toxic to pets.
Related Plants
- Gentiana acaulis
- Gentiana lutea
- Gentiana scabra
- Gentiana sino-ornata
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Gentianella serotina
- Gardening Know How: Gentianella serotina Care
- Wildflower Center: Gentianella serotina
