Gentiana puberulenta, commonly known as downy gentian, is a special plant that was recently discovered by Friends of the Blufflands on one of the bluff prairies near La Crosse. What a pleasant surprise to see this vibrant flower bursting forth with its striking purple color among the withering grasses as we were collecting seeds! According to the University of Wisconsin Arboretum, “The relative scarcity, intense blue color, and late blooming make downy gentian a much sought after treasure”. The Chicago Botanical Garden says, “The gentians are the stars of the autumn prairies”…”that can only be found in remnant prairies of high quality, of which very few have survived. To find this rare gem is truly a real treat.” Michigan State University says this plant, “Requires natural disturbance associated with prairie habitats such as prescribed fire or brush removal to prevent woody plant succession.” The efforts of Friends and its many volunteers implementing both brush removal and prescribed fire on our bluff prairies likely played a role in preserving this unique plant.
Downy gentian is found blooming from August to October and its range is relatively small, concentrated in the upper Midwest as seen on iNaturalist. It is listed as threatened or endangered in many of these states including Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and Tennessee.
Gentiana is derived from a King Gentius who was the last leader of a group called the Illyrians from 181 to 168 BCE, before being conquered by the Romans, in an area near the Adriatic Sea which is present day Albania. King Gentius promoted the medicinal use of the plant Gentiana lutea, native to Europe, for treating malaria. In the late 1800’s a medicinal beverage was created in Massachusetts containing gentian root extract called Moxie Nerve Food to “fix a variety of ailments”. Today this drink has been resurrected as a sweet soft drink called Moxie that still contains gentian root extract for its pleasant bitter aftertaste. It is sold in the New England area and is recognized as the State Soft Drink of Maine ( https://www.maine.gov/sos/kids/about/symbols/drink ). Today the word moxie, originating from this beverage, is said to mean determination, spunk, or daring courage.
Downy gentian is just one of the many special plants that have been found during the restoration of the prairies near La Crosse. More important than any individual plant or animal, however , is the preservation of this amazing ecosystem that we hope to nurture and keep intact in perpetuity. Please show your “moxie” by supporting us as a member or volunteer!
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