Gentiana clausa Bottle Gentian
General
A perennial herbaceous plant native to North America. It is recognized for its unique, closed, bottle-shaped blue-purple flowers that remain sealed until pollinated by bumblebees strong enough to pry them open. Found in moist woods and meadows, often along bodies of water, bottle gentian blooms from late summer into early fall, adding a splash of color and intrigue to natural landscapes. Foliage and roots are bitter tasting, so herbivores often do not decimate it.
Plant Description
Presents robust stems adorned with opposite, lance-shaped leaves that taper to a point. Its distinctive flowers are tightly closed and bottle-shaped, showcasing a deep blue to purple hue that contrasts against the surrounding green foliage.
Height (ft)
1-2'
Soil moisture
Medium
Soil types
Moist, Rich Soils
Wetland indicator
FACW
Shade tolerance
Intermediate, Full Sun to Partial Shade
Bloom color
Blue or Purple
Bloom period
Late Summer
Drought tolerance
Low
Salinity tolerance
None
Range
Found in Eastern North America down through the Appalachian Range to Tennessee and North Carolina.