Planting and Growing the Closed Bottle Gentian

Also known as the closed gentian or bottle gentian, the closed bottle gentian is native to the United States. Botanically, it is known as Gentiana andrewsii or by its synonyms Dasystephana andrewsii or Gentiana andrewsii. It is from the gentian family of plants.

Closed Bottle Gentian Description

Growing one to two feet high, this flowering plant has narrow leaves and clusters of flowers. Leaves are whorled or opposite and purplish in color. Flowers are dark blue or purple. Bloom season is between August and October. Flowers always look like they are in bud stage because they do not open up. Will stay blooming until the frost.

Growing Guide

This perennial prefers partial shade to full shade conditions with a moist or wet acidic to nearly neutral pH soil. It is tolerant of lime. Propagate by seed or root division. Root division should be in early spring or fall. Seed needs three months of cold stratification and then to be sown with some light exposure for good germination.

Distribution

This native is found in the states of Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Dakota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Virginia, Vermont, Wisconsin, and West Virginia. It is seen in damp prairies and moist shaded areas.

Interesting Facts

Gentian flowering plants are named for King Gentius from ancient Illyria. It is said that he found medicinal values in this plant. In addition to that, only very large bees have the strength needed to deposit pollen and take nectar from these tight-budded flowers.

Source: NPIN