UNCOMMON BLOOMS

Bottle Gentian Gentiana andrewsii

This native perennial plant with clusters of deep violet flowers was named for King Gentius of Illyria.

Where is ancient Illyria anyway? Check out what is now northern Greece, northern Italy, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Albania. This sixth century king supposedly discovered that the roots of the Bottle Gentian had a healing effect on his soldiers stricken with malaria.

This uncommon specimen grows between 1-2' tall in full or partial sun with moist soil. Its seeds are moved by water or a gentle wind but it's not invasive or pushy. Bottle Gentian's violet blooms will provide a splendid show from late summer to early fall.

Bottle Gentian is not well known nor is it gaining popularity so you could be the first on your block (or maybe in your entire city) to host this multi-stemmed, leafy, bottle-shaped cluster of flowers.

Where did Prairie Godmothers Bottle Gentian? In the Lurie Garden in Chicago’s Millennium Park.

There should always be surprises hidden in your garden. Prairie Godmothers will be sharing raves and faves regularly so stay tuned!

Every garden has an UNCOMMON BLOOM. Send us YOURS!

HAND ME UPs

Prairie Godmothers found a new phrase for the old practice of passing clothing and accessories on and out. Instead of 'hand me DOWNs', they've become 'hand me UPs'!

Hand me ups include Prom jewelry (so last year), gently worn clogs or that way cool sweater (with the way cracked button) that just doesn't cut it in a teen or twenty something's closet but works just great in yours! A great way to wear something that was special once upon a time.

How about a 'hand me OVER'? Set up a clothing swap among friends and trade away what you love but don't use or wear anymore. It this world (and this economy), it's all about loving what you have and living with what you've got.

Every HAND ME UP has a story. WHAT'S YOURS?