Gentiana macrophylla aka Large Leaf Gentian

Gentiana macrophylla also goes by the name Qin Jiao. It belongs to the Gentianaceae family. This plant lives for years in temperate parts of Asia. Its range includes China, Siberia, Kazakhstan, and northern Mongolia. It is not native to Britain or Ireland. Wild plants grow in grasslands, wet meadows, and open woods. They also grow beside streams, along roads, and near forests. These sites reach heights of 1,312–7,874 feet [400–2,400 metres].

Plants reach about 2 feet [0.6 metres] tall and wide. This size suits garden beds and sunny woodland edges. Flowers bloom from August to September, late in summer. Each flower has both male and female organs. Bumblebees and butterflies move pollen between the flowers. The supplied species accounts do not state the flower colour. Nor do they describe the leaves, stems, or fruit.

Give this species moist soil that drains well. It grows in sand, loam, or clay. The growing guide favours neutral to acid soil. A separate soil summary says it also tolerates mildly alkaline soil. Full sun suits it best, though it accepts some shade. Choose a sheltered place and keep the soil moist. PFAF lists USDA hardiness zones 5–9. It also reports survival at temperatures of at least 5°F [−15°C].

You can grow new plants from seed. Sow fresh seed in a bright cold frame once ripe. You can also sow in late winter or early spring. A cold spell helps seeds sprout. Stored seed soon loses its power to sprout. It may also sprout unevenly. The guide to raising plants says to moisten seed first. Then give it a long cold spell. This needs more planning than sowing in warmth alone. The supplied evidence names no specific pests or diseases. PFAF does not flag the species as a weed.

PFAF lists cooked leaves as food for emergencies only. It does not list them as a regular vegetable. It gives the plant a low edible-use rating. Qin Jiao has a long history in Chinese herbal medicine. These uses focus on its bitter root. Reported uses include gut complaints, arthritis, inflammation, and fever. Inflammation means swelling and the body's response to harm. These records describe herbal use, not proof of safe treatment. PFAF reports no known hazards. This does not prove safety for every person or pet. It lists no other uses.