Great Yellow Gentian

Gentiana lutea

SIZE AND DESCRIPTION

Stout and erect perennial to 1.2m tall. Leaves are opposite, large, ribbed and clasping; those towards the stem form a rosette. Flowers are yellow with 5–9 corolla lobes. Also called Feldwode and Yellow-flowered Gentian.

DISTRIBUTION

Confined to the mountains of central and southern Europe, where it grows in grassy subalpine and alpine pastures.

USES

All gentians contain very bitter principles, which in this species are obtained from the dried roots. Once regarded as something of a universal panacea, the bitters may aid a variety of digestive ailments. Should not be taken in pregnancy or if suffering from high blood pressure.