Yellow gentian is a herbaceous plant belonging to the Gentian family. The homeland of this plant is the central and southern regions of Europe. The large yellow gentian can be found on alpine and subalpine pastures, as well as in the mountains at an altitude of 900 to 1370 m. Prefers loamy and calcareous, moist but well-drained soils, as well as areas that provide protection from wind and direct sunlight. The Great yellow gentian is classified as endangered in some parts of its habitat. It is grown for medicinal and decorative purposes.
Interesting facts:
• The stem is erect, 1-2 m high.
• The root is very long and thick, can reach 30 cm in length and 2.5-5 cm in width. The root is soft and spongy, with reddish bark on the surface.
• Yellowish-green broad lance-shaped or elliptical leaves have pointed tips and protruding veins on the lower surface. The leaves on the top of the stem are smaller in size (compared to leaves that grow close to the ground), and they lack petioles.
• Flowering begins three years after planting. The flowers are large, yellow-orange, gathered in clusters growing from the axils of the leaves. The large yellow gentian produces flowers with both types of reproductive organs (ideal flowers).
• Flowering lasts from July to August. The flowers attract bees, flies and butterflies, the main pollinators of the plant.
• The large yellow gentian reproduces by seeds and crown division.
• Big yellow gentian is also known as "bitter root" or "bitter St. John's wort" because the whole plant (especially the root) has an extremely bitter taste.
• The dry root has invigorating properties. It can be used for exhaustion, general weakness, digestive disorders, lack of appetite and jaundice. The medicinal value of the root is highest immediately before flowering (when it is usually harvested).
• Large yellow gentian was used as an antidote to poisoning in the Middle Ages. It was also used as a tonic and remedy for digestive disorders in animals in the 19th century.
• The plant was used in brewing before the appearance of hops.
• Gentian wine was very popular in the 18th century. It was usually consumed before dinner to stimulate appetite.
• Yellow gentian root is used today to make herbal tinctures and as a flavoring agent for various liqueurs and soft drinks.
• The ornamental plant is often grown in gardens and rockeries.
Yellow gentian is a perennial plant that can live in the wild for up to 50 years.
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