The Fringed Mountain Chalice
Scientific name:
Gentianopsis ciliata (L.) Ma subsp. ciliata
Common name:
Fringed Gentian
Family:
Gentianaceae
Biological form:
Emicriptofita bienne/Terofita scaposa
Characteristics
Habit: Annual or biennial herb 8–30 cm. Leaves simple, sessile. Flowers: Blue-violet with fringed lobes. Fruits: Capsule. Flowering: July–October.
Distribution and habitat
Chorological type: South-European orophyte. Distribution in Italy: Alps and Apennines. Habitat: Dry grasslands and slopes, 700–2200 m.
Etymology
Generic name (Gentianopsis): Similar to Gentiana. Specific name (ciliata): Refers to fringed petals.
Uses and properties
Mild bitter properties but limited medicinal use.
Curiosities
Indicator of well-preserved mountain habitats.