American Gentian

Gentiana catesbaei (jen-shee-AN-uh KAYTS-bee-eye)

Family: Gentianaceae Native Herbaceous (1-3 ft)

Coastal plain gentian is a native herbaceous perennial wildflower found in swampy areas from Delaware to Florida. In North Carolina, it is found mostly in the Coastal Plains in wetlands, swamp edges, pocosins, ditches, and the wet edges of savannas. It is not found in open pinelands and is uncommon to frequent in the Sandhills of North Carolina. This plant grows up to 1.5 feet tall and has a sprawling habit. The leaves are opposite, thick, ovate to lanceolate, and dark green, and the blooms appear in clusters of funnel-shaped, deep blue flowers at the top of the stem in October through November. It is a member of the gentian family (Gentianaceae). The genus name, Gentiana, is in honor of King Gentius of Illyria, who is thought to have discovered the medicinal value of gentian root. The specific epithet, catesbaei , honors Mark Catesby, an English naturalist and plant collector in North America during the 18th century. This plant prefers a constantly moist, acidic, organic-rich soil and full sun with afternoon shade to partial shade. It will grow along bogs and ponds and attracts hummingbirds. Propagated by seeds and division. Coastal plan gentian's status in North Carolina is listed as vulnerable; however, it is no longer found in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Monitor for spider mites. May be susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spots, and rust. Hot direct sunlight can cause leaf scorch.

Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 51 attributes.