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!