Contents
Description
Swertia Perennis, commonly known as the star gentian, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Gentianaceae family. This plant is native to Europe and Asia, and it typically grows in damp meadows, rocky slopes, and woodlands. The plant’s stem is erect, and it can grow up to 60 cm in height. The leaves are lance-shaped and arranged opposite each other along the stem. The flowers are star-shaped and blue in color, with five petals that are fused at the base.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Gentianaceae |
| Genus | Swertia |
Appearance
The Swertia Perennis plant has a unique appearance that makes it easily recognizable. The stem is erect and can grow up to 60 cm in height. The leaves are lance-shaped and arranged opposite each other along the stem. The flowers are star-shaped and blue in color, with five petals that are fused at the base. The plant blooms in late summer and early fall, and it attracts bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Swertia Perennis is a relatively low maintenance plant. Here are some tips for taking care of it:
- Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant Swertia Perennis in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Swertia Perennis is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Swertia Perennis is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too moist. Watch out for slugs and snails, which may feed on the plant’s leaves.
Habitat
Swertia Perennis is native to Europe and Asia, where it grows in damp meadows, rocky slopes, and woodlands. It prefers moist soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How tall does Swertia Perennis grow?
A: Swertia Perennis can grow up to 60 cm in height.
Q: What kind of soil does Swertia Perennis prefer?
A: Swertia Perennis prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: When does Swertia Perennis bloom?
A: Swertia Perennis blooms in late summer and early fall.
Q: What kind of pests and diseases are Swertia Perennis susceptible to?
A: Swertia Perennis is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too moist. Watch out for slugs and snails, which may feed on the plant’s leaves.
Related Plants
- Swertia Chirata
- Swertia Japonica
- Swertia Multiflora
References
- “Swertia perennis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281703
- “Swertia perennis.” Plant Finder. https://www.plantagenetplants.com/plant/swertia-perennis/
- “Swertia perennis.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/13108/i-Swertia-perennis-i/Details
