Purpurea Gentian (Gentiana purpurea)

Family: Gentianaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Gentiana purpurea is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bumblebees, butterflies. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

The root is sometimes used in the manufacture of gentian bitters. — The root is sometimes used in the manufacture of gentian bitters.

Habitat & North American Range

Meadows, pastures and the grassy bottoms of mountain corries, sometimes in scrub and thin conifer woodland, usually on lime-free soils. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)