The Spring Gentian (Gentiana verna) is a species of the genus Gentiana and one of its smallest members, normally only growing to a height of a few centimetres.

The short stem supports up to three opposing pairs of elliptical or lanceolate leaves. The conspicuous vivid blue (sometimes purplish-red or rarely white)^[1] flowers are 1–2 cm in diameter, with a deeply five-lobed corolla; they are produced in late spring to early summer.^[1] The flowers attract butterflies and bees (particularly bumblebees) for pollination. Ants are responsible for the spreading of its seeds.

Distribution

Population of Spring Gentians

G.verna is one of the most widespread gentians, found on sunny alpine meadows and moorland throughout Eurasia from Ireland to Russia. It is common in central and southeastern Europe, such as in low mountain ranges like the Jura and Balkans, and up to an altitude of 2,600 m. It is also to be found in mountainous regions ranging from the high Atlas of Morocco to the mountains of Turkey, Iraq and Iran. In northern Europe, it is very rare, confined to Teesdale in northern England and a handful of locations in western Ireland.^[1] It tends to thrive on dry meadows with chalky soil; it is also known to grow in silicaceous soils. Its scarcity has led to protection in a number of European countries as an endangered species.

Symbolism

It is the county flower of Durham in the United Kingdom.^[2]

Gentiana verna appeared on the design of a Great Britain stamp, issued in 1964 to mark the 10th International Botanical Congress held in Edinburgh.

A number of superstitions are associated with the Spring Gentian. For example, it is considered bad luck to bring the gentian into a house, as the individual would risk being struck by lightning. Also, folklore suggested that death would follow if the flower was ever picked.

References