Swertia perennis

(Star Gentian)

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Swertia perennis, Hoosier Pass, Summit Co. 4153/4162

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Swertia perennis, Hoosier Pass, Summit Co. 4274/4291

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Swertia perennis, Indiana Creek, Summit Co. 2129

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Swertia perennis, Mayflower Gulch, Summit Co. 8209

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Swertia perennis, Mayflower Gulch, Summit Co. 8224

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Swertia perennis, Loveland Pass, Clear Creek Co. 0684

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Swertia perennis, Loveland Pass, Clear Creek Co. 0703

Scientific Name Swertia perennis USDA PLANTS Symbol SWPE
Common Name Star Gentian ITIS Taxonomic Serial No. 30118
Family Gentianaceae (Gentian) SEINet
Reference
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Description Life zones and habitat: Foothills to alpine (7700 to 14000 ft); wet areas along streams, moist meadows and bogs.
Plant: Slender erect or leaning stem up to 18 inches tall, usually much shorter at elevation.
Leaves: Basal rosette, narrowly elliptic to obovate, up to 6 inches long; stem leaves nearly opposite and smaller.
Inflorence: Clusters of star-shaped deep purple to bluish-purple blossoms; 5 petals or lobes each with two dark purple, fringed nectary glands; 5 narrow, pointed sepals; 5 prominent protruding stamens.
Bloom Period: July and August.
References: "Flora of Colorado" by Jennifer Ackerfield, "Guide to Colorado Wildflowers" by G.K. Guennel and SEINet.
BONAP Distribution Map

Map Color Key
Colorado Status:
Native

© Tom Lebsack 2024

Banner photo: Castilleja rhexifolia and a brewing storm over the San Juan Mountains