Gentiana acaulis aka Trumpet Gentian

Taxonomy

Gentiana acaulis, also known as the stemless gentian or trumpet gentian, is a species of flowering plant in the family Gentianaceae. It is native to central and southern Europe, ranging from Spain to the Balkans, and can be found in mountainous regions like the Alps and Pyrenees, thriving at elevations between 800 and 3,000 meters (2,625 and 9,843 feet). This evergreen perennial forms a mat up to 30cm in width, featuring paired, narrowly elliptic leaves. The plant produces solitary, deep blue, trumpet-shaped flowers measuring 6cm in length, adorned with green spots on the inside. These flowers bloom on short erect stalks during late spring and summer. Gentiana acaulis prefers full sun, is fully hardy, and adds a beautiful touch to alpine landscapes.

Common names

Trumpet Gentian, Gentian, Stemless Gentian

How to care for Trumpet Gentian

Difficulty

Trumpet Gentian presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Water

Trumpet Gentian should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Trumpet Gentian loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Trumpet Gentian prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.

Fertilizer

The Trumpet Gentian is known for its slow growth and doesn't require fertilizing beyond its potting soil. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should offer it sufficient nutrition. It's essential to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not from fertilizers.

Growth-pattern

The Trumpet Gentian displays clumping growth habits, with new shoots arising from the soil close to the parent plant.

Region of origin

Trumpet Gentian’s native range is Europe - Spain to Yugoslavia.


More info:
Wikipedia