Swertia perennis
(Star Gentian)
Swertia perennis, Hoosier Pass, Summit Co. 4153/4162
Swertia perennis, Hoosier Pass, Summit Co. 4274/4291
Swertia perennis, Indiana Creek, Summit Co. 2129
Swertia perennis, Mayflower Gulch, Summit Co. 8209
Swertia perennis, Mayflower Gulch, Summit Co. 8224
Swertia perennis, Loveland Pass, Clear Creek Co. 0684
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 |
Click Here |
| 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 2025
Banner photo: Castilleja rhexifolia and a brewing storm over the San Juan Mountains
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