Gentian: growing herb for outdoor use

Gentian plants are beautiful in their shape and varied color of flowers. Numerous representatives of the gentian genus have about 400 species. Blooming gentian can be found everywhere in areas with a continental climate, except for Africa and Antarctica. In the selection there are 90 species of gentian plants, which are mainly used to decorate flower beds, mono flower beds. Some representatives are distinguished by healing qualities and are actively used in traditional medicine. Several species are included in the Red Book.

Pulmonary gentian: photo, description and useful properties of a wild plant

We will talk about a small, unpretentious and very useful perennial plant - pulmonary gentian. The description and useful properties of this herb, which will be listed below, we hope will help you understand the features of its use and preparation. In the article, you can see a photo of the plant.
The scientific name of the gentian is Gentiana pneumonanthe, and the people do not call it as soon as it is called: uraznik, carp, old duck, falcon flight, subaleevka, infant grass, azure and uraznitsa. Let's get to know her better.

Synonyms [edit | edit code]

According to The Plant List for 2010, the synonyms of the species include the following names [9]:

• Ciminalis pneumonanthe Borkh.
• Ciminalis pseudopneumonanthe Bercht. & J.Presl
• Ciminalis vulgaris Bercht. & J.Presl
• Dasystephana pneumonanthe (L.) J. Sojak
• Dasystephana pneumonanthe (L.) Zuev
• Gentiana adrianii Sennen & Elias
• Gentiana eonae Halda
• Gentiana linearifolia Lam.
• Gentiana linifolia Salisb.
• Gentiana macrocarpophora St.-Lag.
• Gentiana manginii Sennen
• Gentiana palustris St.-Lag.
• Gentiana pneumonanthe var. aloyana Merino
• Gentiana pneumonanthe var. boryana Webb
• Gentiana pneumonanthe var. depressa Boiss.
• Gentiana pneumonanthe subsp. depressa (Boiss.) Rivas Mart. & al.
• Gentiana pneumonanthe var. reyesii Pau
• Gentiana pneumonanthoides Wender.
• Gentiana pneumonanthoides Schur
• Gentiana reyesii Sennen & Elias
• Gentianusa pneumonanthe (L.) Pohl
• Pneumonanthe angustifolia Gilib.nom. illeg.
• Pneumonanthe media Raf. nom. illeg.
• Pneumonanthe minor Raf. nom. illeg.
• Pneumonanthe vulgaris F.W.Schmidt

Pulmonary gentian - description and photo

What can I say, gentian deserves many names, because in nature there are about 400 varieties of this wild-growing representative of the flora. Our description concerns the most common of them - that which pleases people in summer with its bright blue, blue or purple bell-shaped flowers.

The gentian has a straight stem, sometimes stretching up to 30 cm in height and narrow leaves, lanceolate, evenly spaced along the entire length of the stem. There are few flower corollas and they are at the top. The rhizome is thick, with many branches. The plant's favorite growing places are meadows with moist soil, but it can also grow between bushes.

Gentiana pneumonanthe is loved by hobby gardeners for its vibrant decorative flowers. In the photo of the pulmonary gentian, posted below, you can see what the plant looks like at the time of its flowering. This period lasts from about June to August.

Plant care

In its natural environment, the gentian has adapted to survive under various climatic conditions. Growing different types of gentian at home requires different care. Many species germinate in high-mountainous regions, in a temperate climate with a snowy frosty winter, as a result of which they calmly endure frosts. Additional shelter for the cold season is not required. The plant can easily withstand hot sultry summers.

Depending on the species, the requirement for illumination of the place of germination is different: the penumbra prefers the crotch gentian, areas under the open sun are necessary for the Daurian, yellow, seven-split, cruciform.

Perennial flowers of gentian prefer loamy, sandy, well-drained soil. Do not allow the soil to dry out. Watering must be done systematically, more often during hot periods.

Most species do not tolerate dry air, as a result of which, for good growth and abundant flowering, plants are planted next to bodies of water (ponds, pools), fountains and other sources of water.

With a well-fertilized soil, additional feeding for the gentian is not required. Otherwise, the soil for a herbaceous plant in open ground is fertilized with a small amount of mineral fertilizers, monthly from spring to autumn.

Beneficial features

The pulmonary gentian is a plant that has pronounced medicinal properties, and therefore it is widely used to treat various diseases. Most often, the roots come into play, since it is they that contain the largest amount of valuable biologically active substances that can provide various useful therapeutic effects on the human body.

The pulmonary gentian contains specific bitter substances, glycosides (amaropanin and amarosverin), with which you can improve appetite and treat diseases of the stomach, as well as various parts of the intestine. The plant also contains the following valuable elements:

• gentianine;
• alkaloids;
• gentiopicrin;
• amarogenin;
• tannins and resinous substances;
• inulin;
• pectin;
• fixed oils;
• phenalkarboxylic acid;
• Sahara;
• vitamin C (it is especially abundant in the leaves).

Title [edit | edit code]

The Latin name for plants of the genus gentian comes from the name of the Illyrian king Gentius, who, as Pliny the Elder pointed out in his work "Natural History", first used the root of this plant to treat the plague in 167 BC. e [4]. The gentian got its Russian name because of the very bitter taste of roots and leaves, due to the presence of glycosides in them [5].

Dahl's dictionary gives several popular names for pulmonary gentian:

• sea ​​bells
  (according to various versions, the name was given either for the color of the flower, resembling the color of the waves of the sea, or came from the word
  overseas
  with a lost prefix);
• lazorka, subolevka, chicken blindness, carp
  [6] ;
• noritsa, norichka, noritsa, noritsa grass
  (the name is used for different types of gentian, denotes a potion for the treatment of noritsa - an ulcer on the back of the neck in horses) [7].

Many names of gentian contain "Botanical Dictionary" N. I. Annenkov, among which St. John's wort female small, St. John's wort black, tincture, Christov is frozen

.

The use of gentian in folk and traditional medicine

From time immemorial, people have been making medicinal drugs from pulmonary gentian that cure many diseases. It is known that in the Middle Ages, this herb was used in the treatment of plague, tuberculosis, diarrhea, scurvy, jaundice and arthritis. Medieval healers used gentian to expel worms. They watered their patients with medicinal decoctions from its root in order to remove the poison from their body after a snakebite.

In the Carpathians, the herb was brewed for the use of patients suffering from congestion in the gallbladder and liver diseases. Chinese healers have traditionally used the plant to help people suffering from such complex diseases as lupus erythematosus. In Japan, the medicinal bitterness of the plant is used for the preparation of cosmetic preparations. The centuries-old experience of traditional medicine says that gentian is a strong immunomodulator.

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Today, this magic herb is also widely used:

1. The substance gentianin, contained in the roots of the plant in high concentration, allows the plant to be used to treat coughs, relieve spasms, and reduce high temperatures.
2. It is an excellent sedative and anti-inflammatory agent.
3. Phenolcarboxylic acid is famous for its properties to restore the functions of the gastrointestinal tract.
4. People suffering from allergic diseases can use a decoction or infusion of this versatile plant as an antihistamine.
5. Pulmonary gentian helps in the treatment of gout, relieves anemia, constipation and flatulence.

Traditional medicine also paid attention to such a valuable plant. On its basis, preparations are made for the treatment of anemia, chronic hepatitis C, hypotension, etc. Gentian extract is included in many herbal balms, for example, in the famous Bittner balm.

Even the food industry has not spared gentian, in some countries it is used in brewing.

Gentian: planting and care in the open field

1. Choosing a landing site.
   Well-lit flower beds, rock gardens, or a small partial shade, which will be formed by the openwork crown of tall trees, are most suitable for the plant. The direction for planting must be chosen west, since on the south the ground gets very hot during the day. If cereals with low stems are planted nearby, then for gentian they will become the best neighbors, since in nature these representatives of the flora coexist in meadows. The place should not have proximity to groundwater and suffer from flooding by melt snow or rains. In strong shade, gentian stems begin to stretch ugly, but mountain species will need to be protected from direct sunlight.
2. Planting soil
   gentian directly depends on its variety. Lime substrates are suitable for the species of Dinaric (Gentiana dinarica) and Delecluse (Gentiana clusii). Before planting under each bush, it is recommended to add about a handful of crushed limestone (crushed stone) or bone (dolomite) flour. If a species of stemless gentian (Gentiana acaulis) is planted, then a soil with a slightly acidic reaction (pH 5-6) is selected for it. The plant will also be comfortable on the scree. More acidic soil will prefer the kind of Chinese-decorated (Gentiana sino-ornata). Dusts from rocks, crushed to the size of sand grains, are also suitable for planting gentian septemfida (Gentiana septemfida). If we talk about other types of gentian, then it is recommended to use a soil mixture with neutral acidity (pH 6.5–7) for them. Gentians such as spring (Gentiana verna) and yellow (Gentiana lutea) will grow well on a rich and loose substrate, with the former preferring wetter soil.
3. Planting gentian
   held in early May or mid-autumn. Basically, for this, ready-made seedlings are used, which are placed in separate holes in the flower bed. There should be 15–20 young plants per 1m2. Before planting, it is necessary to dig up the soil twice, loosen it and lay a drainage layer (expanded clay or crushed stone) on the bottom of the hole, then bone meal or lime is added there. Saplings are not subject to strong deepening, the root collar is placed flush with the soil.
4. Watering.
   When caring for a gentian, it is important that the soil does not dry out, therefore it is regularly moistened, especially when there is an increase in growth or flowering. If the weather is rainy, the soil may become waterlogged, so it is recommended to often loosen it next to the bush. When planting gentians in acidic soil, the bushes are watered only with rain or settled water.
5. Fertilizers for gentian
   it is not necessary to make it, since in nature the plant grows on poor soils. Once a year, a mulching layer (about 3-5 cm) should be poured under the roots, consisting of peat, river sand and horn shavings, in small quantities. If mineral fertilizers are used, this is necessary in order for Gentiana to adapt to the soil environment in which it is planted. If care is taken for species that prefer acidic soil, then you can use top dressing intended for rhododendrons and azaleas.
6. General advice on care.
   Although the plant can tolerate winters without shelter, with a small amount of snow cover, freezing is possible, therefore gentian bushes are covered with spruce branches in the fall. If the height of the stems is more than 50 cm, then it is recommended to cut off the discolored peduncles in a timely manner.

Contraindications

As useful as the herb in question is, some caution is needed when using it. If you do not know the measures, using decoctions and infusions from the plant, then this can cause severe headache, redness of the skin, dizziness and even fainting.

Especially dangerous is the thoughtless use of gentian-based products for people who have ulceration of the gastric mucosa and high blood pressure.

It is better for pregnant women not to resort to self-medication with gentian, since it tends to increase the tone of the uterus. The period of breastfeeding is also a contraindication.

Difficulties in the process of caring for gentian and ways to solve them

If we draw an analogy with other garden plants, then gentians are rarely affected by both harmful insects and diseases. But while the rooting of cuttings or seedlings takes place, young plants cannot resist diseases provoked by fungi. In this case, discoloration of the foliage occurs and mottling begins to cover it. Unopened buds are also damaged by fungi, which can lead to mold growth. In addition, pests sometimes gnaw them. Usually, all difficulties in growing gentian are due to violation of the rules of planting or care. Among such diseases are:

1. Gray rot (Botrytis cinerea),
   which is provoked by Botrytis fungi. She's the hardest to control. Most of the symptoms of damage are seen on the surface of flowers, in the form of grayish-brown specks. In the rainy season, the size of the spots grows rapidly. Often, gray mold appears on the surface of old marks. The disease is provoked with poor ventilation in greenhouses or alpine houses. If it is found that the shoots are affected, then they are immediately removed. For the prevention of gray rot, it is necessary to spray with fungicide solutions. But the best prevention is to air the plantings.
2. Leaf spot (Septoria),
   manifested by the formation of spots of yellowish-brown color with a purple edge on the tops of the leaf plates. The most effective remedy for the fight is Bordeaux mixture or any compounds that include copper.
3. Gentian rust (Puccinia gentianae)
   , which is provoked by a rust fungus, which has a high resistance to chemicals. Symptoms are the formation of dark brown pustules on the foliage. If the lesion has spread to most of the bush, then this will inevitably lead to the death of the gentian. All parts affected by rust are cut off and burned so that the disease does not spread to other plantings in the garden. The soil in this place is also contaminated and after processing it with a strong solution of potassium permanganate it is better not to plant anything in this place for several years.
4. Fusarium or basal rot.
   The pathogen is the fungus Fusarium oxysporum, which is activated during warm weather and high humidity. Species originating from Asian lands and hybrid varieties of gentian blooming in autumn are especially affected by this disease. To protect the planting, it is recommended, for prevention purposes, to spray the aboveground part of the bushes with Tsineb. The main harm is caused by this mushroom to young, immature seedlings of gentian at high humidity and warmth. Although when growing seedlings, conditions with high humidity are necessary, protection against falling water drops from the shelter, which is used to create a mini-greenhouse, is important.It is best when the glass, plastic bottle, or plastic wrap is placed at a slight angle.
5. Viral diseases.
   A small number of viral infections of gentian plants were recorded. And until now, botanists have not come to a consensus whether this virus is special for this representative of the flora, or is it capable of infecting other plants. Only with seed reproduction is it possible (but not 100%) to avoid the occurrence of a viral disease of plantings. Its sign is the formation of a colorless spot on foliage or stems. Also, these symptoms can occur with other diseases, activation of microorganisms, or if the agrotechnical conditions of growing are violated.

Among the pests that can ruin gentian bushes stand out:

• Slugs and snails
  eating not only foliage, but also buds. To get rid of them, both beer traps and chemicals such as "Meta Groza" are used. They are also collected by hand.
• Ants,
  which are not so harmful to gentian as they are simply annoying to flower growers. You can use the old method of flooding ant nests with boiling water, but there is a possibility of destruction of the plants themselves. It is recommended to use chemicals: "Muratsid", "Anteater" or "Thunder-2", others with a similar composition are possible.
• Thrips,
  sucking juice from leaves, buds and flowers. When they are affected, discolored areas or specks appear. The activation of these pests occurs in warm weather; to combat them, it is recommended to spray with insecticides, for example, Aktara or Aktellik.
• Caterpillars,
  as well as the larvae of butterflies and beetles, which spoil not only the seedlings, but also the sown seeds. Apply insecticidal treatment (Fitoverm, for example) with a repeat after 10 days.
• Nematodes,
  which harm the root system and are manifested by deformation of the foliage at the tops of the shoots. They provoke a slowdown in plant growth or curvature of its branches. It is recommended to spray three times with a break of 10 days with anti-nematode agents - BI-58 or Dimethoat, Rogor is also suitable.

Infusion recipe

To prepare a healing infusion, you will need about 15 g of dried roots of a wild-growing plant of the lung gentian (raw materials can be found in the pharmacy):

• Before proceeding with the preparation of the potion, the roots must be thoroughly crushed. Grinding raw materials will help as many active nutrients as possible to be released and give their strength to the infusion.
• Prepared crushed roots are poured into an enamel or ceramic bowl and immediately poured with boiling water (1 glass).
• You need to insist for about 1 hour. During this time, the drug will have time to brew properly and cool down enough to start filtering.
• To filter home medicine, you can use gauze folded in several layers or an ordinary strainer.

The finished infusion can be consumed in 1 tbsp. spoon before meals. This remedy stimulates the appetite, helps with constipation and heartburn, and has a tonic effect.

Description of the plant

The gentian, whose other name is gentian, bitter root, bitter root, is a perennial and annual herb that grows from 20 to 150 cm. It belongs to the gentian family. Garden and wild plants of gentian differ in height, shape and color of the flower, flowering time.
The botanical description of a plant includes a description of the different parts of the herb. Gentian leaves are whole, opposite. Stems are erect, often short. The root system is shallow, represented by one thickened root with ornate processes.

Gentian flowers, depending on the variety, are single, collected at the ends of the stems in a small group. They sprout from the base of the leaves, the colors are different - blue, light blue, yellow and white.The shape of the flower is elongated, bell-shaped, goblet or funnel-like, many species straighten the petals, becoming flat.

The fruit of the gentian herb is a single-celled capsule with small seeds. The flowering period is very different for many species: some bloom in spring, they are replaced by summer species, autumn bloom by September.

Gentian is propagated by seeds and vegetatively (by dividing the bush, layering and cuttings).

Florists have a fairly large selection of gentian varieties. Many of them, for example, yellow gentian, in addition to their unpretentious disposition, have valuable medicinal properties. Blue and blue gentian flowers will perfectly fit into any flower garden or alpine slide.

Botanical description and varieties

The plant has been known since Antiquity, has been used as an effective remedy for plague, and contains analgesic components. It has an erect large stem, narrow leaves with one longitudinal vein.

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The inflorescences are collected in the axils of the upper leaves, after the flowering period from August to September, seeds appear on the stalk, which are used for propagation of the culture.

The photo of the pulmonary gentian attracts with its massive leafy crown, luxurious flowers of white, orange, blue color, lily-lanceolate leaves. This is a wonderful decoration for a personal plot.

According to the description of the pulmonary gentian, several varieties of the plant are distinguished; it is a stemless, undersized species with large decorative flowers. It is used to decorate the suburban area.

The three-flowered gentian grows up to 80 cm, a characteristic feature is the presence of five-membered flowers of a dark blue color. It is used to treat the digestive system, as a remedy for fatigue and neurasthenia.

Gentian yellow in culture is not bred, it is found in the wild, is used by herbalists in the manufacture of medicinal products to improve the functioning of the genitourinary system.

Views

The gentian genus has about 400 species. There are 96 representatives on the territory of the Russian Federation and neighboring countries. In the natural environment, pulmonary gentian and cruciform gentian are common in the Caucasus, Western Siberia, in the European part in forests, fields and meadows. Gentian yellow is common in the foothills of the European zone, in the Carpathians. The Grimace Gentian grows on the mountain slopes of central and southern Europe, it was also found in the mountains at an altitude of up to 2000 m. The cross-leaved gentian is widespread, starting from the territory of Kazakhstan and ending with Western Siberia, throughout the European part of Russia. The most widespread among florists is the type of Alpine gentian. This short perennial plant blooms spectacularly with large single blue flowers.

The gentian species amaze with their diversity, amazing flowers can be found everywhere. Due to the many varieties of gentian, you can create unusual garden compositions, both from one species and from several.

Spring gentian

A low winter-hardy perennial 3-5 cm high. Elongated oval-shaped leaf plates grow from the base of the stem. The stem is short, erect, ends with a single bud up to 2 cm in diameter, with five blue or white petals. The spring gentian begins flowering in June.

Spring gentian

Gentian Delecluse or Clusy

The view is well suited for creating compositions on alpine slides. Outwardly, it is very similar to the stemless gentian. A short, perennial herbaceous plant blooms with bell-shaped flowers of a deep blue color with a lighter middle.The stem is a short peduncle growing from a basal rosette formed by densely growing elongated, pointed lanceolate leaves. Shows the best growth on silty, fertile, fertilized lands.

Gentian Delecluse or Clusy

Kolakovsky's gentian

An ornamental plant up to 25-30 cm high, with branched, evenly leafy stems. At the base of the stem, the leaves are small, round or ellipsoidal, on the stem the leaves are elongated lanceolate, the upper ones are narrow and long. From the surface of the ground to the top of the stems, the length of the leaves increases by about 3 times. The flowers are large, light blue, funnel-shaped, up to 5 cm long, germinate singly or in groups of up to 4 buds. The flowering period is late summer - early autumn. Winter hardy look.

Kolakovsky's gentian

Dinaric gentian

A perennial ornamental plant native to Western and Eastern Europe. It is 10-15 cm high, it covers an area of ​​up to 0.5 m. The leaves are elongated, oval, narrow, green, retaining a bright color even under snow. Flowers up to 5 cm in diameter, bell-shaped, on short legs. The color is bright blue with a green-gray center. Flowering time is late spring - early summer. The seed-bearing fruit ripens by August. It tolerates the winter period of the year quite well, no additional shelter is required. It blooms best in sunny places and in partial shade. Gentian is not particularly demanding for the soil, however, for more active growth and flowering, it is preferable to select fertile, well-drained soil. Does not require special care, watering as the soil dries up, calmly tolerates temporary drought. For better growth, top dressing is recommended.

Dinaric gentian

Chinese gentian decorated

Perennial up to 15 cm high, occupies an area of ​​up to 30 cm. The stem is densely covered with narrow pointed leaves. The Chinese gentian blooms in mid-autumn. Buds up to 5 cm in length, bluish, with a characteristic light striped base. In spring, for good growth, it is enough to provide partial shade; after flowering, it is necessary to ensure direct sunlight. Flowering period May - August. Gentian was first found in China, found on mountain glades, slopes. The plant was found at an altitude of 5000 m.

Chinese gentian decorated

Gentian stemless or Koch

In its natural environment, it can be seen in the foothills and mountains of Western Europe. The Koch gentian is a perennial low (up to 10 cm) herb that does not have a stem. The flowers are large, located on a peduncle growing from a basal rosette. Oval, elongated, slightly pointed and bent along the leaves with smooth edges, tightly frame the peduncle at the root rosette. The stemless gentian begins flowering in late spring - early summer. Flowers are single, large, up to 5 cm in diameter, looking up, blue or light blue. A characteristic feature is that the flowers close before the rain. The plant belongs to decorative flowers. The species is winter-hardy.

Gentian stemless or Koch

Gypsum gentian or fleece

Perennial up to 60 cm high. Densely leafy stem, straight. Leaves of gentian crotch with smooth edges, opposite, elongated, heart-shaped, up to 8 cm long and 5 cm wide, pointed, with clearly visible longitudinal veins. Flowers are formed at the top of the stem and upper internodes, singly or in several pieces. The shape of the bud is bell-shaped, the petals are pointed, blue, with dark purple blotches. Gusset gentian blooms in August - September.

Gypsum gentian or fleece

Gentian yellow

The tallest representative of the gentian genus, reaches a height of 1.5 m. The stem is erect, glabrous. The root is thickened, not long, taproot, with many processes.Large oblong elongated leaves grow abundantly at the base, smaller leaf blades on the stems in internodes. The yellow gentian blooms profusely with small yellow flowers up to 3 cm long, located on the crown of the stem and upper internodes. The flowering period is about 1.5 months, starting in the middle of summer. The yellow gentian is a long-liver among representatives of its genus; under favorable conditions, it can live for more than 50 years. Winter-hardy flower, does not require additional shelter for the winter.

Gentian yellow

Large-leaved gentian

A perennial herbaceous gentian blooms in the second half of summer. Height of straight or slightly drooping stems up to 80 cm, diameter up to 6 mm. Leaves of various sizes and shapes are concentrated at the base of the stem and in internodes. The longest leaves reach up to 40 cm in length and 18-30 cm in width. Flowers up to 2 cm in diameter, clustered in groups at the end of the stem and in the upper internodes. Five-membered bell-shaped bud, blue-violet, pointed petals.

Large-leaved gentian

Ciliated gentian

The plant is up to 30 cm high with large flowers up to 6 cm in diameter. A characteristic feature: unlike the five-petal buds of other species, the ciliated gentian has four separate, helicopter-propeller-like, narrowed petals, each of which has villi and hairs. In most cases, the color of the buds is bright blue, there are also specimens with white flowers. The flowering period is the beginning of autumn.

Ciliated gentian

Dahurian gentian

Perennial not more than 40 cm high, stems straight or ascending. The leaves are long, narrow, narrowed at both ends, densely sprout from the root rosette. Stem leaves are smaller in size; at the top of the stem, the leaves are even narrower and shorter. Flowers sprout in groups on the top of the stem and axils of the upper leaves. Bell-shaped buds are large, mostly blue. Gentian daurskaya Nikita begins flowering in the second half of summer.

Dahurian gentian

Gentian large-colored

Low perennial ornamental plant (up to 10 cm). Narrow elongated leaves are collected around the root rosette. Large single bell-shaped flowers up to 4 cm in length, blue-purple in color. Duration of flowering is about a month, begins to bloom from the end of spring.

Gentian large-colored

Pulmonary gentian

An ornamental perennial no more than 60 cm high, with a straight unbranched dense leafy stem. The underground part is small: a short, thickened, tubular root, with small processes. At the base, the stem is framed by tightly pressed parts of dead leaves. The stem itself is covered with narrow lanceolate, up to 7 cm long and 1 cm wide, opposite, accrete at the base, leaves. Bell-shaped single or paired flowers, up to 5 cm in length, are formed at the end of the stem at the bases of the upper leaves. They are distinguished by a dark blue color and characteristic short thin greenish strokes on the petals. The pulmonary gentian begins flowering in late summer.

Pulmonary gentian

Seven-part gentian

An ornamental perennial herb up to 30 cm high. Numerous stems are straight or ascending, densely leafy. Leaves are small, elongated, lanceolate, sessile. The flowers are dark blue, large, up to 4 cm long, germinate in groups of up to 8 flowers at the top of the stem. Seven-part gentian begins flowering in mid-summer, flowering duration 1.5 months. Calmly tolerates severe frosts without additional shelter.

Seven-part gentian

Gentian cross-leaved, Gentian

The height of a perennial plant of alpine gentian is up to 70 cm, the root is not long, dark brown, thickened.Densely leafy stems, solitary or in groups, glabrous, straight or ascending, with a dense basal rosette of leaves. The leaves are elongated, not wide, with a characteristic bend towards the ground.

In internodes, the leaves germinate in pairs, groups of tightly-seated buds are formed on the crown and upper part of the stem. The cross-leaved gentian blooms with blue goblet flowers with four rounded-elongated petals bent at the ends. The flowering period is mid-summer.

Cross-leaved gentian is very much appreciated in folk medicine as a remedy for various diseases. For healing purposes, only the roots are used, which, after being harvested, are subjected to immediate heat treatment to preserve all the healing properties.

Cross-leaved gentian

Gentian cruciform

Outdoor herbaceous plant. The cruciform gentian reaches a height and width of up to 1.5 m. The stem is up to 3 mm in diameter, unbranched, with a greenish or purple tint, densely leafy, straight or ascending. At the base of the stem, a basal rosette of 6-8 leaves is formed, elongated oval, up to 8 cm long. Stem leaves are green, opposite, oval, lanceolate, paired, up to 10 cm long and up to 3 cm wide, up to 10 pairs of leaves on one stem.

The flowers are bell-shaped. The buds are blue with a purple tint on the inside, green-gray on the outside, up to 3.5 cm in length, germinate in groups of up to 5 pieces from the bases of the stem leaves in the upper part of the stem. The fruit ripens by the beginning of autumn, the seed capsule contains a large number of elongated seeds.

The cruciform gentian begins to bloom in late spring - early summer. The plant is frost-resistant, does not require additional shelter for the winter. Able to survive temporary drought. The place of germination does not play a special role. Sunshine or partial shade does not affect the growth and flowering of the cruciform gentian. For planting, a well-drained, moist and fertile soil is selected.

Chilly gentian

The place of germination is on the tops of the mountains of the alpine belt, damp rocky, clayey slopes and glades. A short perennial, no more than 10 cm in height, with a shallow root system. The stem is erect, ends with one or a group of flowers up to three buds in a bunch. The inflorescence is bell-shaped, yellow-green, along the edge of the petals there is a pattern in the form of teeth, dots, light blue spots. The plant requires special scrupulous care; growing on an alpine slide is available only to experienced flower growers.

Chilly gentian

Point gentian

The erect stem grows up to 40-60 cm, the leaves are green lanceolate-linear. Inflorescences of 4-6 pcs. goblet collected in the axils of the upper leaves. The color is yellow with dark purple spots and dots, which is why it got its name. The flowering period is the end of summer. Loves moist soil, prefers sunny and semi-shady places.

Point gentian

Gentian Urnula

Stunted species up to 4-8 cm in height, with unusual green diamond-shaped leaves, with white edges. Outwardly, the leaves resemble a starfish, collected tightly around the root rosette. Germinate densely in groups. One bud grows from the central part, much higher than the height of the plant itself. The petals are gray-white with characteristic purple stripes. Has an original exotic look, completely unpretentious in care. Used to decorate alpine slides.

Gentian Urnula

Gentian ternifolia

Perennial creeping on the ground. In its natural environment, it is found in Western China. Leaves densely cover the stem, they are narrow in shape, pointed, greenish. The root rosette is framed by narrow long leaves up to 2 cm, grayish-green in color. Single buds, up to 4 cm in length, bloom at the ends of the stems.Bell-shaped inflorescences are pale blue, with white spots and a yellowish core, outside they are framed with characteristic dark vertical stripes.

Gentian tricolor

The plant prefers wet, swampy places. On the territory of Russia, it is found on Sakhalin and Eastern Siberia. A perennial bush with an unbranched, straight stem reaches 60-80 cm in height. The root system is branched, shallow, creeping. At the base of the plant, the leaves are tightly collected, on the stem, the leaves are linear in pairs.

At the top of the peduncle, a group of 3-4 large five-membered goblet-shaped buds is formed, blue-violet in color. The flowering period is late August - early September. The tricolor gentian got its name because of the flowers blooming three at a time.

Gentian tricolor

Narrow-leaved gentian

A low perennial plant up to 20 cm in height. In its natural environment, it is found on the foothills of the Alps, prefers clay, calcareous soil. The leafy stem ends in a large, single, blue, bell-shaped flower. The flowering period is late spring - early summer.

Narrow-leaved gentian

Rough gentian

Homeland - Japan and North Asia. Straight vertical or semi-straight, strongly leafy stems 25-30 cm high. Leaves are elongated, paired, narrowed, oval, with a characteristic central vein. Buds in groups of 4-5, collected in the axils of the leaves in the upper half of the stem and on the crown. The inflorescence is up to 2.5 cm in length, bell-shaped, predominantly dark blue with pronounced spots in the center of the flower and at the bases of the petals. The rough gentian begins to bloom in early September.

Rough gentian

Healing properties

Gentian contains a number of useful glycosides, which are natural antispasmodics, normalizing gastric secretion and activating the body's defenses.

The list of medicinal properties of pulmonary gentian:

• anti-inflammatory;
• antipyretic;
• sedative;
• emetic.

Decoctions and infusions of the plant are used for diseases of the joints, to facilitate labor during childbirth, for malaria, allergic rashes in children, poisoning with insect bites.

Contraindications include the presence of high blood pressure, the possibility of an allergic reaction, stomach ulcers. As well as the period of pregnancy and lactation.

To prepare medicinal compositions, it is necessary to dig out the rhizome of the plant, clean it from the ground, dry it and use it as directed. Improper use of the product can cause irreparable harm to the body.

Pulmonary gentian

Pulmonary gentian (common) is a perennial of the gentian family.

She has several popular names:

• falconer / falconer;
• azure;
• the difference;
• carp grass;
• chicken blindness;
• norich grass.

Description

Graceful, medium height (up to 60 cm) perennial herb is decorated on top with large five-petal bells of deep blue color. Stem - thin, straight, with many small narrow lanceolate leaves. Prefers shady, moist places with light, fairly acidic soils. Loved by gardeners and landscape designers for its unpretentiousness and pleasant appearance.

The pulmonary gentian is repeatedly mentioned in sources as a remedy for the plague, known almost since antiquity (according to the testimony of Dioscorides and Pliny), but this is not entirely accurate. Rather, the use of pain-relieving glycosides in gentian made it possible to alleviate suffering in the pulmonary form of the disease, but in matters of healing it is hardly able to compete with streptomycin used in 1947 in Manchuria.

Gentian pulmonary photo

However, we must pay tribute, falconer grass has long been used for medical and veterinary purposes, as a powerful anti-inflammatory agent.It is known that the name "norica grass" came from the word of Polish origin "norica", meaning an ulcer (hole) on the back of the head or withers of a horse, formed due to abrasions from improperly fitted or excessively contaminated equipment (headband, saddle). In Vedic practice, a potion was allegedly prepared from the roots of the witch's witchcraft, which was used to lubricate the armpits before visiting the Sabbath.

Chemical composition

Along with essential oils and tanning polyphenols, the raw material of the falcon contains a number of useful bitterness (glycosides), for example, gentiopicrin, svertsiamarin, amarogenthin, which, firstly, are natural antispasmodics, and secondly, they stimulate the digestive process and enhance the secretory function of the stomach, which allows use gentian root also as a seasoning to whet the appetite. The source of additional energy are rare sugars - gentiobiose and gentianose, as well as pectin and ascorbic acid. The properties of the alkaloid gentianine present in the rhizomes are characterized as antipyretic, sedative, anticonvulsant and antitussive. Phenol carboxylic acids, such as ferulic and o-hydroxyphenylacetic, have an emetic effect. The polysaccharide inulin, being a prebiotic, helps with dysbiosis, diabetes, infectious diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

Healing properties

Summarizing the information about the composition of the plant, we can highlight the main medicinal properties of the pulmonary gentian:

• fortifying;
• anti-inflammatory;
• antipyretic;
• cough receptor blocker;
• sedative;
• emetic.

Medicinal use

Preparations based on the stems, leaves and roots of the falconer are used primarily to combat respiratory diseases: influenza, bronchitis, tracheitis, asthma, tuberculosis, and pneumonia. The second, most extensive area is diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, in particular, achilia - the absence of the enzyme pepsin and hydrochloric acid in the gastric juice. Also used for hepatitis, scurvy, inflammation of the gallbladder, rheumatic joint lesions. Used during obstetrics to ease contractions. There are known cases of successful treatment of malaria and seizures caused by the bites of poisonous animals and insects.

Recipes

Bitter gin (malaria, anemia, hypotension, tuberculosis):

Rinse fresh roots of pulmonary gentian, peel from the top layer, cut into 5 cm pieces and split lengthwise into four parts. Pour any brand of gin in a 1: 2 ratio. Infuse for six weeks, then filter thoroughly. The tincture will turn out to be very bitter, before use, dilute or add to drinks, no more than 30 drops per dose.

Blue tea:

Only fresh gentian flowers give a coloring effect. When mixed with white Chinese tea or mate, they provide an interesting unusual color shade and have a general soothing effect.

Useful properties of gentian

All plant varieties have medicinal properties, therefore they are used for medicinal purposes. In the roots, the aerial part contains a large amount of biological valuable substances that have a positive effect on the human body.

The plant is valued for the fact that it contains a bitter substance, with the help of which it is possible to cure diseases of the intestines, stomach, and improve appetite. Glycosides have an antispasmodic effect on the human body.

Scientists have found that gentian root contains a sufficient amount of amarogen, gentiopicrin, bitter glycosides - a little amaropanin, more amarosverin. The root contains alkaloids.

Due to the fact that gentian contains a sufficient amount of gentianin, it is possible to cure a cough, get rid of a convulsive state, bring down high body temperature, this is the best anti-inflammatory and sedative drug.

The root of the plant contains flavors, resinous, tannin, pectin, inulin. The root is rich in sugar, fatty oils.Gentian roots contain a lot of phenalkarboxylic acid, with the help of which it is possible to restore the functionality of the gastrointestinal tract.

Planting and breeding

Two methods of reproduction of gentian are used - seed and vegetative (by layering, dividing the bush, cuttings).

The gentian is planted no further than 15-30 cm from each other, in any case, the plants "meet", forming a continuous grass carpet.

Depending on the species, the shelf life of gentian seeds varies from 6 months to 1 year. To extend the shelf life, the seeds are kept in a cool place. When leaving and planting gentian in the open field by the vegetative method, special attention should be paid to the roots, the plant reacts extremely painfully to damage to the root system.

Growing

The most common and easy way to grow gentian is by dividing the bush and grafting. Not all species lend themselves to dividing the bush, but only those with a branched root system, cord-like. An adult 4-5 year old plant, strong and healthy, is suitable for division. The aboveground part and the root system are completely dug up, divided into parts with a shovel or ax so that each plot has a growth bud. When transplanting a part of a bush to a new place, it is necessary to bring in a sufficient amount of "mother, native" land.

When breeding gentian, you can easily determine an effective method of reproduction: if the plant is in the form of a dense bush, then it should be propagated by division, with a single growth from one root rosette, the seed method is used.

Growing from seeds

The easiest way to reproduce is by seed, but it requires some experience and patience. Seeds do not have good germination; to increase the chance of seed germination, they are stratified. Depending on the type and climatic conditions of growing, seed preparation requires a different time spent in the cold. For thermophilic species, 3 weeks are enough, for species with extreme germination conditions, it will take at least two months. Seeds are mixed with sand, left in a container at a temperature not higher than + 5 ... + 7 ° С.

After stratification, the obtained gentian seeds are left in a warm room, and, starting from January to April, they are introduced into the soil to obtain seedlings. Seeding boxes are filled with fertile, moist soil, seeds are applied in an even layer, and sprinkled with compost. Boxes and containers are closed with a transparent lid or covered with cellophane. When growing gentian from seeds, periodically, as soon as condensation forms on the lid, the boxes are ventilated. The soil must be kept moist at all times, but not wet. Airing is increased when the first sprouts appear, after about 2-3 weeks, the cover is gradually removed completely.

For good growth and development, the container with seedlings is moved to a bright, well-ventilated place, with a temperature not higher than + 16 ... + 18 ° С. As soon as the first 2-3 leaves are formed, the sprouts are transplanted into separate containers.

Propagation by cuttings

When propagated by cuttings, healthy, strong bushes are chosen. The division of the bush is carried out in spring or autumn. To preserve the color of the gentian, the transfer of the bush should be done with extreme caution, with a large lump of native land, as well as subsequent abundant watering and feeding.

Varieties of early flowering gentian are propagated by cuttings. An adult plant is suitable for this before the beginning of the flowering period. Small cuttings up to 15 cm in length are separated and immediately rooted in moist, fertilized, sandy soil. For better rooting and growth, a pot of cuttings is placed in a semi-shaded place, the moisture of the soil is monitored.

Reproduction by layering is one of the most effective ways to reproduce gentian. It is produced in the spring. The long stem is pressed tightly to the ground and fixed with a bracket. With good care and proper watering, the stem takes root by the fall.In the future, the "daughter" is separated from the mother bush and transplanted to a new place of growth.

Application of gentian

Since ancient times, various diseases of the stomach have been treated with decoctions, infusions based on gentian. This is one of the most effective remedies for a convulsive condition, relieves health after an injury, removes poison after a snake bite, and some insects. It is used as an antipyretic agent and an anesthetic drug for plague.

Related article: Spring adonis - useful properties, description

In the Middle Ages, gentian was used to treat tuberculosis, diarrhea, fever, plague, this is the best remedy for worms. In the Carpathians, gentian was used to treat liver diseases, inflammation and congestion in the gallbladder, all diseases of the stomach and intestines. Proven to be one of the best cough suppressants, it strengthens the immune system. Decoctions could alleviate their condition with rheumatism, jaundice, arthritis, scurvy. Gentian relieves constipation and heartburn. With the help of it, it was possible to alleviate the symptoms of various allergic reactions; gentian had the same effect as antihistamines.

Modern folk medicine appreciates gentian for the fact that it can improve the appetite of a sick person, normalizes the digestive process, it is one of the best hemostatic, choleretic and anti-inflammatory drugs. They can treat gout, eye diseases, wounds that are difficult to heal, and improves liver function. Gentian preparations improve the condition of the heart muscle.

Decoctions and tinctures from gentian can cure diathesis, anemia, normalize acidity in gastric juice, get rid of flatulence, constipation. The herb is the best way to strengthen the body.

Traditional healers of Italy use gentian to maintain normal blood pressure. Tibetan doctors use only such varieties as large-leaved, large-flowered gentian, with their help they treat the stomach, gallbladder, oncology, relieve inflammation from the throat.

Medicines based on gentian are used by traditional medicine, they have a tonic effect on the body, treat achilia, hypotension, anemia, chronic hepatitis C, and get rid of increased flatulence.

Gentian breeding tips

In order to get such an unpretentious plant with bright flowers on your site, you can sow seeds, cuttings or divide overgrown bushes.

After collecting gentian seeds, they can persist from six months to a year without losing germination properties. In this case, the seed should be in a paper bag. If the temperature is low, then their activity will drop slightly. Before planting, it is necessary to carry out a 1-3 month stratification, when the seeds are kept at a temperature of 5-7 degrees on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator. The aging period in moderately humid conditions directly depends on the variety of gentian: for some plants, a month is enough, and up to three are kept for those coming from high-mountainous regions. If the period of stratification is not correctly determined, then the seed goes into a dormant state until the next spring. Since the seeds are very small, for ease of sowing, they are mixed with river sand, or you can use peat in granules, at a ratio of 1: 3.

Sowing in autumn or before winter is possible. In this case, the bed must first be prepared - the soil is sifted and leveled on it. The seeds are spread on the surface of the substrate, only slightly pressing into it. Larger seeds must be sprinkled with the same soil mixture. It is better for such sowing to use seeds that have just been harvested after the bolls have ripened.

If the gentian bush has grown very much, then with the arrival of spring or after the flowering process (in autumn) it can be divided.However, it should be noted that some species very poorly tolerate a change in the place of growth, therefore it is recommended to transplant by the transshipment method when the earthen lump is not destroyed. With the help of a shovel, the plant is digged in a circle, and then, using a garden pitchfork, it is removed. With a sharpened knife, the root system of the bush is cut, trying to leave a sufficient number of both roots and stems with renewal buds on each part. To prevent infection, all slices are sprinkled with crushed charcoal or pharmacy activated ones are taken. The distance between the divisions is maintained up to 25 cm. After planting, abundant watering is carried out.

Reproduction of a species with ground cover shoots is possible by rooting daughter rosettes. With the arrival of autumn, new soil with a mulching layer is poured under the mother gentian bush. The stems with the dried peduncles on them are cut off and only with the arrival of spring they carry out the division. Some species do not require a complete digging of the bush, you can cut off the part of the plant that is on the edge with great accuracy and transplant it to a prepared place.

If it is decided to propagate the gentian by grafting (which, by the way, is not suitable for some species), then it is better to cut the blanks from the tops of the shoots even before the buds begin to bloom. The length of the cutting will be 10 cm, it is planted in a container filled with moist and loose soil. It is important to create a greenhouse environment - put a cut plastic bottle or glass jar on top. They take care of the cuttings in such a way that there is daily airing, and the soil in the pot does not dry out. After a month, root shoots form in the cuttings, they can be planted in a prepared place in open ground.

Benefits of gentian root

This part of the plant is especially useful, most of the glycosides and sugar are concentrated in it. Due to them, you can restore a person after a serious illness, improve his digestive function, appetite, gastric disorders, does not have such a side effect on the body as constipation.

Gentian root is the best antipyretic, fortifying agent, it is actively used to treat anemia, it can be used to increase blood pressure and cure malaria. Gentian yellow is included in the well-known phytotherapeutic preparations - Bittner balm, Doctor Theis bitterness.

To prepare decoctions based on the root of a plant, you need to take a spoonful of the dried root, grind it first, pour it into a glass, add boiling water there, then boil it for about 15 minutes. Consume 30 minutes before meals. With the help of a decoction, you can improve your appetite.

To cure arthritis, rheumatism, gout, you need to use such a recipe, it will require a liter of water, 3 teaspoons of the plant in dry form, boil everything for about 20 minutes, leave for 3 hours. Consume 150 ml 10 minutes before you sit down to dinner.

To get rid of sweating feet, you need to use such a drug. You will need the root of the plant - 6 tablespoons, some oak bark. Boil everything for 15 minutes. Then, before going to bed, you need to take such a foot bath.

Diseases and pests

The right place for growing and creating the necessary conditions for the development of a strong plant, in many ways, helps to repel harmful factors and reduce the risk of disease, but does not completely eliminate them. Even if all conditions are met, the plant can be attacked by harmful insects.

With increased watering and water stagnation, the plant can be attacked by snails and slugs, which eat leaves and flowers. To combat them, various traps, baits are used, and pests are collected manually.

Ants do not so much harm the plant as spoil the appearance with their presence, and also contribute to the appearance of aphids on the plant.A wide variety of different chemicals are available for ant control. Folk ways to get rid of ants - fragrant sunflower oil, ground cinnamon, garlic juice, birch tar, boiling water and others, can get rid of unwanted neighborhoods.

If dots began to appear on the leaves of the flower, discolored areas appeared, then in most cases thrips attacked the plant. These small insects are capable of rapid reproduction in the warm season. Insecticides will help get rid of pests. The larvae of various insects can damage young growth; insecticides are used as a control.

If the plant slows down in growth, the leaves begin to deform slightly, then most likely these are nematodes. To combat them, a course of spraying with special means from this pest is used.

In case of gray mold damage, gray-brown spots are formed on the buds and leaves, which spread quickly during prolonged damp weather and in places with poor air circulation (closed greenhouses, winter gardens). The affected plants are removed and destroyed, to prevent the onset of the disease, the plant is treated with fungicides, excessive waterlogging of the air and soil, and air stagnation are avoided.

If the tips of the plant began to turn into yellow-brown spots with a characteristic purple frame, then the gentian should be treated with a Bordeaux mixture. Infection with a rust fungus is fraught with the appearance of dark pustules; with a strong infection, the plant may die. In the early stages of infection, diseased plant parts must be removed and burned. In no case do not throw it away, the fungus can continue its "attack" on nearby growing plantations. For several years, other gentians cannot be planted on this place. Gentian rust is very resistant to all kinds of chemicals.

In humid and warm weather, as well as stagnation of moisture in the ground, the basal part of the stem can rot. The damaged stem base is treated with Tsineb.

Wintering

Many species of gentian in nature grow in rather harsh conditions, and frosts do not interfere with the resumption of the life of flowers with the onset of spring. It is important to clarify when buying how the selected variety tolerates wintering, to create suitable conditions.

More thermophilic species are dug up in the fall, transplanted into a flowerpot, and kept in a cool room until the first warm days. Most gentian species can overwinter directly on the site, but it is imperative to build a reliable shelter from fallen leaves and needles. A thick layer of natural materials protects the bushes well from freezing.

On a note! At the end of autumn, it is imperative to cut off the shoots almost to the root zone, and only after a simple procedure can you cover the gentian with fallen leaves and spruce branches.

Types and varieties of gentian with photos and names

Most often, gardeners choose perennial gentian species, and not annuals, to decorate their site. Below will be described those species, varieties, and hybrids that are most popular with gardeners.

Stemless gentian (Gentiana acaulis)

Or gentian Koch (Ciminalis acaulis = Gentiana excisa = Gentiana kochiana). This herbaceous perennial plant is highly frost-resistant; in natural conditions it can be found in the mountains of Western Europe. The height of its shoots is about 10 centimeters, green leaf plates have an oval-elongated shape, with which the bushes meet winter. The length of large upward-facing flowers is about 50 millimeters, they are colored blue or light blue, while flowering begins in May – June. This species has a variety called alba: the flowers are white.

Gourd gentian (Gentiana asclepiadea), or cottonwood

The height of such a perennial plant can reach 0.8 meters. The length of pointed leaf plates is about 10 centimeters, they have an oblong-oval shape.The height of straight peduncles is about 50 millimeters, they bear from one to three flowers, which are most often painted in dark blue or blue, and in some cases, white.

Dahurian gentian (Gentiana dahurica)

The homeland of this species is Mongolia, Tibet, Sayan and Dauria. Straight or ascending shoots can reach a height of 0.4 meters. The basal leaf plates narrowed at both ends have a linear-lanceolate shape. Stem leaf plates have a short sheath, while it is practically absent in the upper leaves. The color of large flowers is rich dark blue, they are located in the axils of the upper leaf plates. This species has been cultivated since 1815. Daurian gentian is grown for cutting, and also as a container plant.

Yellow gentian (Gentiana lutea)

Under natural conditions, this species is found in Central Europe and Asia Minor. It is considered the most vigorous of all known gentian species, the height of the bush is about 1.5 meters. The root of such a plant is taproot. Large lower leaf plates have petioles and an oval-elliptical shape, while the stem leaves are smaller. The length of yellow flowers is about 25 millimeters, their formation occurs at the tops of the shoots, and also in the axils of the upper leaf plates. Bushes bloom in the middle of the summer period, and flowering lasts 1.5-2 months. This frost-resistant species is able to winter without shelter. It has been cultivated since 1597.

Large-leaved gentian (Gentiana macrophylla)

This species has a wide growing area, so in nature it can be found in Mongolia, Central Asia, Western and Eastern Siberia, China and the Far East. The height of its straight or ascending shoots is about 0.7 meters, while in diameter they reach from 0.3 to 0.6 centimeters. The base of the shoots to a height of 20–80 millimeters is shrouded in fibrous remnants of old leaf blades.

Pulmonary gentian (Gentiana pneumonanthe)

In nature, this species is found in Asia and Europe. The height of erect shoots is about 0.65 meters, they are not branched and densely leafy. The length of the linear-lanceolate leaf plates is about 60 millimeters, and their width is 6 millimeters. The formation of dark blue flowers is observed in the leaf axils and at the top of the shoots. Their calyx is bell-shaped, and the corolla is tubular-clavate.

Seven-part gentian (Gentiana septemfida)

In nature, the species can be found in Iran, the European part of Russia, Asia Minor, Crimea and the Caucasus. The height of the bush is about 0.3 meters, it has many shoots, which are ascending or erect, they are covered with lanceolate leaf plates. The heads include dark blue flowers with a length of about 40 millimeters. This species has been cultivated since 1804.

Gardeners also cultivate such species as: spring gentian, Delecluse (or Clusi), Dinaric, Kolakovsky, Chinese decorated, large-flowered, ciliate, frosty, dotted, three-flowered, narrow-leaved and rough.

Today there are a large number of gentian hybrids that are highly decorative. Of greatest interest to gardeners are:

1. Nikita... The bush is decorated with a large number of flowers of medium size and azure blue color.
2. Bernardi... This species begins to bloom in August. Partially tubular flowers have a dark azure color.
3. Dark Blue... This autumn variety has flowers of a rich ultramarine color, they have dark stripes on the inside of the petals.
4. Blue emperor... In such a dwarf variety, the flowers have an ultramarine color.
5. Farorna... The flowers have a pale blue color with a white-cream corolla.
6. Gloriosa... Such a Swiss variety has wide-open blue flowers, their throat is snow-white.
7. Elizabeth Brand... Azure flowers are elongated, short shoots are painted in a pale brown color.

Gentian transplant

In one place, the culture can grow for up to seven years, after which the planting needs to be updated. Usually, the renewal is carried out by dividing the adult mother plant into parts.

The resulting cuttings are placed in prepared planting pits on a new bed, filled with soil, compacted and watered. The transplant is carried out in late spring or early autumn. Plants take root after the procedure for about three weeks.

Gentian, culture description

Gentian species differ significantly in their appearance and care requirements. The variety of shades of inflorescences, flowering periods and plant heights allows you to skillfully combine different varieties of gentian in one rock garden and rockery, creating beautiful flower combinations.

• Gentian root is thick and wrinkled and grows vertically. From the point of view of traditional medicine, it is the most valuable part of the plant.
• The stems of the culture are erect, their length varies greatly from 6 cm to two meters. Gentian leaves are ovate, oppositely placed.
• Gentian inflorescences are often solitary, however, they are also found in the form of umbrellas. Their color is mesmerizing with the depth of blue shades, but there are yellow, purple, scarlet, white colors.
• Out of several hundred gentian varieties, 90 varieties have been cultivated. Most European species are successfully grown in our latitudes, but there are many Asian varieties for admirers of exotic beauty.
• Among the gentian, there are both annual crops and perennial representatives that are able to survive severe frosts in a harsh climate. Therefore, gentian is a suitable herb for outdoor use.
• Gentian seeds form in the center of the fruit, a small unilocular capsule. Their size differs from species to species.

Features of gentian

The height of gentian bushes can vary from 0.2 to 0.5 meters. Most often they have short and straight shoots, while the shortened and thick root has several filamentous processes. Alternate sessile leaf plates are solid. Small or single flowers can be four- or five-membered. Most often they have a blue, blue or purple color, but there are species with white and yellow flowers. The shape of the corolla of a flower can be funnel-shaped or bell-shaped, while in some species it is similar to a plate. The flowering time depends entirely on the species and can be in summer, spring or autumn. The fruit is a bivalve box with small seeds inside.

Is it difficult to care for?

This beautiful plant is completely undeservedly bypassed by many gardeners. The reason is the widespread opinion about the exactingness of care; it is also believed that the plant does not hibernate in the open field in the middle lane. It still hibernates. And care is no more troublesome than for popular dahlias or gladioli.

Among the variety of species, you can pick up plants to decorate any area: some grow beautifully in the shade, others - in semi-shaded or sunny areas; most grow well on soils with a neutral reaction, there are species that prefer an acidic or alkaline soil reaction; as "mountain dwellers" some varieties of gentian grow beautifully on rocky ground.

You should take a closer look at the individual types of gentian, find out their features, and then, seeming shortcomings, turn into advantages.

Fertilizer for gentian

Often it is impossible to feed the culture, as this can cause irreparable harm to it.

During the flowering period, it is enough to fertilize the gentian with a complex mineral fertilizer, and in the spring to mulch it with a mixture of peat and compost. If necessary, lime or bone meal can be added to the soil.

Gentian plant, role in landscape decoration

The alluring color of gentian makes it an important part of modern landscape design. All types are popular: both undersized stemless specimens and tall bushes that bloom both in summer and autumn. Their expressive blue color stands out favorably in group plantings with a predominance of snow-white and yellow colors.

Gentiana is used for planting in rabatki, for decorating curved paths, as well as in solitary plantings. And of course, it is difficult to imagine a rock garden or rocky gardens without an extraordinary gentian.

Choosing a site for growing gentian

Perhaps the most important thing in growing gentian is the right site. If all the requirements are met, in gratitude you will receive a long lush bloom in piercing blue tones.

Illumination and humidity

When choosing a place for growing gentian, one should start from the conditions in which the plant lives in the natural environment. Generally, gentian grows best in light shade. The ideal location would be the west side. It can be planted in the periphery of the crown of a large tree - the scorching rays of the midday sun will not harm the plant.

Despite the fact that gentians are mainly mountain plants, they do not tolerate drought. So that the soil does not overheat and does not dry out, plant low-growing cereals nearby - an imitation of natural meadow conditions.

The plant is able to adapt to high air humidity: it can be planted near water bodies.

Priming

As for the soil, it is preferable for the plant to have a small amount of gravel (this ensures the permeability of the soil, protecting it from moisture stagnation at the roots).

Most gentian species grow well in neutral soil. Deleksluza gentian and Dinaric gentian prefer lime soils (add a handful of bone meal or ash before planting). For stemless gentian, a slightly acidic soil is suitable, for a Chinese decorated one - acidic. They should be watered with acidified water (add a few citric acid granules).

Gentian yellow and springtime need nutritious loose soil.

Content

• General information
• Types and varieties of gentian
• Gentian planting and care in the open field
• Watering gentian
• Soil for gentian
• Gentian transplant
• Fertilizer for gentian
• Flowering gentian
• Pruning gentian
• Gentian preparation for winter in the Moscow region
• Gentian seed growing
• Reproduction of gentian
• Diseases and pests
• Gentian medicinal properties and contraindications
• Gentian in cooking
• Conclusion

Blank

For treatment, use a rhizome with roots, less often the herb cruciform gentian. The time for harvesting rhizomes is late autumn or early spring. The dug rhizomes are washed immediately after collection in cold water, cut into pieces and dried under a canopy or in a ventilated room.

The herb is harvested as it blooms by cutting off the leafy tops of the stems. They are tied in small bunches (8-10 stems each) and dried by hanging over a cloth or paper outside in the shade or in a ventilated room.

Growing gentian seeds

Gentian seeds photo

Gentian seeds have a shelf life of 6 to 12 months. They should be stored in a paper bag in a warm, dark, and dry place. Under such conditions, they are at rest, but their vital activity continues. Storage at low air temperatures significantly reduces seed activity.

Sowing in the ground

Gentian seeds are sown in open ground before winter or seedlings are grown. When sowing in winter, the seeds do not need pretreatment. Dig up the area, spread the seeds over the surface and cover with a rake. Seedlings will calmly tolerate low spring temperatures, but they will need to be shaded from direct sunlight. Maintain optimum soil moisture throughout the season.By autumn, a rosette of leaves will form.

How to grow gentian seeds for seedlings at home

Gentian seed photo of seedlings

To grow gentian seedlings, the seeds must be prepared. They are very small, stratification is necessary to ensure germination. For 1-3 months, keep in moderately humid conditions at an air temperature of 7 ° C, ventilation is required. To do this, mix the seeds with granulated peat or fine sand in a ratio of 1 to 3. The period of stratification is established experimentally: for some, 1 month is enough, for alpine ones, at least 2 is required.

Then start sowing. It is best to use ceramic containers. Soil: Mix the universal seedling substrate with coarse sand in a 1 to 1 ratio.

• Spread the seeds less often on the surface of the soil, spray from a fine spray, cover with foil or glass, maintain the air temperature at 20 ° C.
• The germination process takes 12-20 days. Ventilate crops regularly to remove condensation.
• When sprouts appear, remove the shelter, provide diffused lighting and air temperature within 14-18 ° С. When the sprouts are strong enough, they will form a pair of true leaves, plant them in separate containers, deepening to the cotyledon leaves.
• Transplant into open ground in late April-early May by transferring an earthen clod.

Gentian in the garden

The gentian is good on rocky areas and in rockeries. This is how she looks the most natural. It is advisable to use group plantings, then a solid carpet will cover the allotted area. It will delight you with sapphire shades, which are rarely found in nature.

In the flower garden, tall plants are used in central positions, and undersized species are used in the foreground. Blooming or ornamental plants should be placed next to them, which do not grow too much. It can be sage, sedge, bells. You can plant gentian in front of coniferous and deciduous shrubs. The neighborhood with medium-sized cereals is also effective.

Watering gentian

The plant belongs to moisture-loving crops, so you need to ensure that the soil on the site is always slightly moist. Watering the gentian should be systematic. Especially moisture is needed for flowers in hot and dry periods, when their buds are laid and bloom.

After each watering, the bed should be loosened and weeds removed. To reduce watering and loosening, it is enough to mulch the area with gentian with a thick layer of peat or sawdust.