Hungarian gentian (Gentiana pannonica, Fl. Carniol., ed. 2, 1: 182 (1771))

Family: Gentianaceae

Author: Scop.

Bibliography: Fl. Carniol., ed. 2, 1: 182 (1771)

Year: 1771

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Gentiana

Vegetable: False

Observations: C. Europe

Description

The Hungarian gentian, scientifically known as Gentiana pannonica, is a noteworthy species within the illustrious Gentianaceae family. First described by the prominent botanist Giovanni Antonio Scopoli in the influential work “Flora Carniolica,” second edition, published in 1771, this herbaceous plant has captured the interest and admiration of botanists and plant enthusiasts alike.

Endemic to Central Europe, the Hungarian gentian thrives in specific natural habitats across the region. Renowned for its striking beauty, this gentian features distinctive flowers that command attention. Its blossoms are typically deep blue or purplish, often complemented by intricate markings or patterns, making it a visually captivating addition to its native landscapes.

The Hungarian gentian tends to flourish in alpine and subalpine meadows, where it benefits from the moist, well-drained soils that these environments provide. Its presence in these habitats is not only a testament to the plant’s ecological importance but also an indicator of the health and biodiversity of the local ecosystem.

As part of the Gentianaceae family, Gentiana pannonica shares many characteristics with other members of its botanical group, including its preference for temperate climates and its perennial growth cycle. The plant has a robust root system which helps it survive in the often harsh conditions of its native habitats.

Additionally, the Hungarian gentian possesses medicinal properties that have been recognized in traditional practices. Like many gentians, it has been utilized for its potential therapeutic benefits, including digestive aid and tonic properties, although modern scientific validation of these traditional uses is limited.

In conclusion, the Hungarian gentian, or Gentiana pannonica, is a fascinating and beautiful species that enriches the botanical wealth of Central Europe. Its ecological role, historical significance in botanical literature, and traditional medicinal uses make it an important subject of study and admiration within the plant world.

Common Names

Deu: “ungarn”-enzian, ungarischer enzian
Swe: brungentiana
Eng: hungarian gentian
En: Hungarian Gentian, Pannonian Gentian
Cs: Hořec panonský
Fr: Gentiane de Hongrie
De: Ungarischer Enzian, Ungarn-Enzian, “Ungarn”-Enzian, Ostalpen-Enzian
It: Genziana rossigna
Pl: Goryczka panońska
Sk: Horec panónsky
Es: Panonski svišč
Sv: Brungentiana
: Hungarian gentian

Synonyms

• Gentiana punctata (Jacq.)
• Gentiana semifida (Hoffmanns. ex Rchb.)
• Pneumonanthe pannonica ((Scop.) F.W.Schmidt)
• Gentiana purpurea var. pannonica ((Scop.) Gaudin)
• Coilantha pannonica (G.Don)

Distribution

• Austria (native)
• Czechoslovakia (native)
• Germany (native)
• Italy (native)
• Switzerland (native)
• Yugoslavia (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Aug 2, 2020 by Clara Wagner (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 15, 2022 by Petr Bartosik (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 24, 2009 by Friedrich Birkhan (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 9, 2021 by Vincenc J (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 24, 2009 by Friedrich Birkhan (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Jul 16, 2022 by Claus-Dieter Seidel (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 10, 2021 by Elisabeth Ellu (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 13, 2022 by Maty H (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 13, 2022 by Maty H (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 24, 2009 by Friedrich Birkhan (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Aug 14, 2021 by Claus-Dieter Seidel (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 12, 2021 by Elisabeth Ellu (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 29, 2021 by Vincenc J (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 29, 2021 by Vincenc J (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 15, 2022 by Petr Bartosik (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/7440277)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:368631-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Gentiana pannonica Scop.)

Specifications

Growth