The Alpine Chalice of King Gentian

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Scientific name:

Gentiana dinarica (Beck) Beck

Common name:

Apennine Gentian

Family:

Gentianaceae

Biological form:

Emicriptofita rosulata

Characteristics

Habit: Small perennial herb up to 8 cm. Leaves in basal rosettes with hyaline margins. Flowers: Large blue-violet tubular corolla. Fruits: Capsules with many seeds. Flowering: May–August.

Distribution and habitat

Chorological type: Southeastern European. Distribution in Italy: Central Apennines. Habitat: Alpine grasslands and calcareous rocks, 1600–2300 m.

Etymology

Generic name (Gentiana): Named after King Gentius. Specific name (dinarica): Refers to Dinaric Alps.

Uses and properties

Medicinal roots used in traditional herbal remedies.

Curiosities

Protected species due to rarity.