Showy prairie gentian facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Showy prairie gentian |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Eustoma
|
| Species: |
russellianum
|
The Eustoma russellianum is a beautiful flowering plant. It belongs to the gentian family. Many people know it by its common names like Texas bluebells, bluebell, or Lisianthus. This plant was once called Eustoma grandiflorum. There is also a special type of this plant called 'Bolero Deep Blue'.
What is a Texas Bluebell?
The Texas bluebell plant has cool blue-green leaves that feel a bit waxy. It grows tall and straight. Each plant has pretty bell-shaped flowers. These flowers can be blue, pink, or white. Depending on where it grows, the Texas bluebell can live for one year (annual), two years (biennial), or many years (perennial).
Where Do Bluebells Grow?
You can find the Texas bluebell mostly in the Great Plains area of North America. This area stretches from Wyoming down to Nebraska, and further south into Texas and Mexico.
This plant loves wet, sandy soil. You will often see it growing near streams or along creek beds. Sadly, because these flowers are so popular, people pick them often. This makes it hard for the plant to spread its seeds naturally in the places where it usually grows.
Growing Texas Bluebells
The Texas bluebell is a very popular flower for gardens. People in Japan have been growing it for over 70 years! Gardeners have created many different kinds of Texas bluebells. Some have extra petals, making them look "double." Others come in a wide range of colors.
Plant Problems
Just like any plant, Texas bluebells can sometimes get sick. They can be affected by tiny fungi or viruses. These problems can make the leaves spotty or cause the plant to wilt. Gardeners try to keep their bluebells healthy by making sure they have good soil and enough water.
