Family: Gentianaceae
Author: Froel.
Bibliography: Gentiana: 37 (1796)
Year: 1796
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Gentiana
Vegetable: False
Observations: E. Canada to E. U.S.A.
Description
Narrowleaf gentian, known scientifically as Gentiana linearis, is a captivating flowering plant that belongs to the esteemed Gentianaceae family. Authored by Froel. in his work “Gentiana” published in 1796, this botanical gem has since captivated botanists and plant enthusiasts alike with its distinct features and geographical spread.
Native to Eastern Canada and the Eastern United States, narrowleaf gentian thrives in a variety of natural habitats across this region, making it a familiar sight to those interested in North American flora. The plant’s slender, linear leaves are a defining characteristic, lending it the common name that speaks to its visual appeal. The foliage, coupled with the striking blue or violet blossoms, creates a remarkable visual contrast that stands out in its natural settings.
Narrowleaf gentian is particularly admired during its blooming period, when its vivid flowers emerge to brighten meadows, wetlands, and forest edges. The blossoms, often tubular and elegantly structured, encapsulate the beauty and complexity of this perennial herb. As a member of the Gentianaceae family, narrowleaf gentian shares its lineage with a variety of other gentians known for their medicinal properties and aesthetic appeal.
In addition to its attractive flowers, Gentiana linearis is known for its adaptability and resilience, capable of flourishing in different environmental conditions within its native range. This adaptability ensures its continued presence and the preservation of its ecological role within its habitat.
Narrowleaf gentian’s significance extends beyond its appearance, contributing to the biodiversity and ecological health of its native regions. Its presence in Eastern Canada and the Eastern U.S.A. enriches the botanical tapestry, providing habitat and resources for various pollinators and other wildlife.
The study of narrowleaf gentian and its conservation remains an important aspect of botanical research, ensuring that this striking plant continues to be a part of the natural heritage for generations to come. As we celebrate the beauty and resilience of Gentiana linearis, it serves as a reminder of the intricate and often overlooked wonders of the plant kingdom.
Common Names
Eng: narrowleaf gentian, narrow-leaved gentian, bastard gentian
Fra: gentiane à feuilles linéaires, gentiane linéaire
En: Narrowleaf gentian, Narrow-Leaf Gentian, Narrow-leaved gentian, Bastard gentian
Fr: Gentiane à feuilles linéaires, Gentiane linéaire
Synonyms
- Gentiana linearis f. blanchardii (Fernald)
- Gentiana saponaria var. linearis ((Froel.) Griseb.)
- Ciminalis linearis (Bercht. & J.Presl)
- Pneumonanthe linearis ((Froel.) Greene)
- Pneumonanthe pseudopneumonanthe ((Schult.) G.Don)
- Pneumonanthe media (Raf.)
- Gentiana pseudopneumonanthe (Schult.)
- Diploma hudsonica (Raf.)
- Gentiana michauxii (G.Don)
- Dasystephana linearis ((Froel.) Britton)
- Ericoila linearis ((Froel.) G.Don)
- Gentiana saponaria var. froelichii (Torr. & A.Gray)
Distribution
- Labrador (native)
- Maine (native)
- Manitoba (native)
- Maryland (native)
- Masachusettes (native)
- Michigan (native)
- New Brunswick (native)
- New Hampshire (native)
- New Jersey (native)
- New York (native)
- Ontario (native)
- Pennsylvania (native)
- Québec (native)
- Tennessee (native)
- Vermont (native)
- Virginia (native)
- West Virginia (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Sep 3, 2020 by Andy Sheets (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 3, 2020 by Andy Sheets (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 2, 2022 by heather alapi (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 26, 2021 by Marie L’Heureux (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 8, 2021 by la via (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Aug 16, 2021 by Boreas46 (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 22, 2019 by Natacha Ouellet (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 16, 2022 by Dakota Davies (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 29, 2022 by Jesse Schwartzberg (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 12, 2021 by Margaret Dent (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Aug 20, 2019 by Vicki Brown (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 16, 2013 by EOL − Dan Nydick (cc-by-nc)
Taken Aug 20, 2013 by EOL − Kent McFarland (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − WVU Herbarium (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Sep 16, 2013 by EOL − Dan Nydick (cc-by-nc)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3170063)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:108395-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Gentiana linearis Froel.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb
