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Great Yellow Gentian Wikimedia Commons
Gentianaceae

Great Yellow Gentian

Gentiana lutea

Power and resilience.

Family
Gentianaceae
Genus
Gentiana
Native to
Central and Southern Europe
Bloom season
Summer
Type
Perennial
Height
100-150 cm
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade
Soil
Deep, fertile, well-draining
Water
Moderate
Hardiness
5-7
Lifespan
Perennial

Did you know

  • The roots are used to make gentian liqueurs and bitters, including the famous French aperitif Suze.
  • A single plant can live for over 60 years, but it may take 5-10 years to produce its first flowers.
  • The root can grow over a meter long and has been harvested for medicine for over 2000 years.
  • It is protected in many European countries because overharvesting for herbal medicine has reduced wild populations.
  • Gentian root is one of the most bitter natural substances known and is used to stimulate appetite and digestion.

Color meanings

0

Ingratitude

1

You are unjust

2

Strength

Uses

  • Liqueurs and bitters
  • Herbal medicine
  • Digestive aid
  • Alpine gardens