Pygmy gentian (Gentiana prostrata, N.J.von Jacquin, Collectanea 2: 66 (1789))

Family: Gentianaceae

Author: Haenke

Bibliography: N.J.von Jacquin, Collectanea 2: 66 (1789)

Year: 1789

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Gentiana

Vegetable: False

Observations: E. Alps, NE. Europe to Russian Far East and Iran, Aleutian Is. to WC. U.S.A.

Description

The pygmy gentian, scientifically known as Gentiana prostrata, is a fascinating plant species belonging to the family Gentianaceae. This delicate and intriguing plant was first described by the botanist Haenke and was later included in N.J. von Jacquin’s renowned work “Collectanea” in 1789, specifically in the second volume on page 66.

The pygmy gentian is known for its distinctive small stature, often found adorning the rugged terrains of the Eastern Alps and extending its reach throughout northeastern Europe, reaching as far as the Russian Far East and Iran. It also holds a unique presence in the Aleutian Islands, extending to the western coasts of the United States. This wide geographic range highlights the plant’s remarkable adaptability to various climates and altitudes.

The pygmy gentian typically thrives in cold, alpine environments, where it contributes to the breathtaking tapestry of mountain flora. Despite its name, which suggests diminutive size, this plant stands out due to its striking blue or violet flowers that bloom close to the ground. These blooms are often seen peeking out from the crevices of rocky outcroppings or nestled amidst alpine meadow grasses.

Given its penchant for high-altitude habitats, the pygmy gentian is an integral part of the fragile alpine ecosystems. Its presence is not only a visual delight but also an indicator of the health of its environment, often flourishing in areas that are relatively undisturbed by human activity. The plant’s delicate flowers and low growth form help it to withstand the harsh conditions typical of its native habitats, from freezing winters to short, intense summers.

Botanists and plant enthusiasts are drawn to the pygmy gentian for its exquisite beauty and its representation of the resilient alpine flora. It serves as a reminder of the intricate balance within high-altitude ecosystems and the subtle, yet significant, roles that even the smallest plants play in these landscapes. Efforts to conserve its natural habitats are crucial, ensuring that the pygmy gentian continues to thrive and enchant future generations.

Common Names

Eng: pygmy gentian, moss gentian
Fra: gentiane penchée
En: Pygmy gentian, Moss gentian
Fr: Gentiane penchée, Gentiane couchée
De: Niederliegender Enzian
It: Genziana a dieci punte
Qu: P’inqa phallcha

Synonyms

• Chondrophylla prostrata ((Haenke) J.P.Anderson)
• Ericoila prostrata ((Haenke) Borkh.)
• Ciminalis prostrata ((Haenke) Á.Löve & D.Löve)
• Gentiana prostrata var. typica (Hauman)
• Varasia prostrata ((Haenke) Soják)

Distribution

• Afghanistan (native)
• Alaska (native)
• Alberta (native)
• Aleutian Is. (native)
• Altay (native)
• Assam (native)
• Austria (native)
• British Columbia (native)
• Buryatiya (native)
• California (native)
• China North-Central (native)
• China South-Central (native)
• Colorado (native)
• East Himalaya (native)
• Idaho (native)
• Iran (native)
• Irkutsk (native)
• Italy (native)
• Kamchatka (native)
• Kazakhstan (native)
• Kirgizstan (native)
• Krasnoyarsk (native)
• Magadan (native)
• Mongolia (native)
• Montana (native)
• Nepal (native)
• Nevada (native)
• North Caucasus (native)
• North European Russi (native)
• Northwest Territorie (native)
• Oregon (native)
• Qinghai (native)
• Switzerland (native)
• Tadzhikistan (native)
• Tibet (native)
• Tuva (native)
• Utah (native)
• Uzbekistan (native)
• West Himalaya (native)
• West Siberia (native)
• Wyoming (native)
• Xinjiang (native)
• Yakutskiya (native)
• Yukon (native)

Additional Images

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Flower

Taken Jul 25, 2022 by Adele Prina (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Aug 20, 2001 by EOL − Dean Wm. Taylor (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jun 1, 2010 by EOL − Gerald and Buff Corsi (cc-by-nc-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3170069)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:108504-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Gentiana prostrata Haenke)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth