Spring gentian

Description:

The Spring Gentian is a species of the genus Gentiana and one of its smallest members, normally only growing to a height of a few centimetres. The short stem supports up to three opposing pairs of elliptical or lanceolate leaves. The conspicuous vivid blue flowers are 1–2 cm in diameter, with a deeply five-lobed corolla; they are produced in late spring to early summer. The flowers attract butterflies and bees (particularly bumblebees) for pollination. Ants are responsible for the spreading of its seeds.

Habitat:

It tends to thrive on dry meadows with chalky soil; it is also known to grow in silicaceous soils. Found on sunny alpine meadows.