The Healing Bitter Root

Gentiana lutea L.
Scientific name:
Gentiana lutea L.
Common name:
Great Yellow Gentian
Family:
Gentianaceae
Biological form:
Emicriptofita scaposa

Characteristics

Habit: Tall perennial herb up to 150 cm. Leaves large, lanceolate, with parallel veins. Flowers: Yellow, in whorls. Fruits: Capsules with winged seeds. Flowering: May–July.

Distribution and habitat

Chorological type: South-European orophyte. Distribution in Italy: Mountain regions. Habitat: Sunny grasslands and subalpine zones, 500–2200 m.

Etymology

Generic name (Gentiana): Named after King Gentius. Specific name (lutea): Means yellow.

Uses and properties

Highly valued medicinal plant used in liqueurs and pharmacology.

Curiosities

Long-lived plant used in rituals and folklore.