Soapwort gentian facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Soapwort gentian |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Gentiana
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| Species: |
saponaria
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Gentiana saponaria, also known as the soapwort gentian or harvestbells, is a beautiful flowering plant. It grows about 30 to 60 centimeters (1 to 2 feet) tall. This plant belongs to the Gentianaceae family.
What Does Soapwort Gentian Look Like?
The soapwort gentian looks a lot like other "bottle" gentians. These include plants like Gentiana clausa and Gentiana andrewsii. It has leaves that grow in pairs along its stem. These leaves are shaped like a spear.
Its stems usually do not have branches. The plant produces pretty blue or purple flowers. It also has a strong, thick root called a taproot. Tiny insects called bumblebees help the flowers make seeds. They do this by carrying pollen from one flower to another.
Where Does Soapwort Gentian Grow?
This plant is found naturally in eastern North America. You can see it south of the Great Lakes. Its range stretches from Wisconsin to New York. It also grows south into Texas and Florida.
The soapwort gentian is not very common. It usually grows in sandy soils that have not been disturbed. This means it likes places where the ground has not been dug up or changed much.
