Flowers of the Alps

Spotted Gentian

Primula glutinosa Gentiana punctata
Tüpfel-Enzian and Punktierter Enzian

Photo taken on Gaislachjoch (1800m), near Sölen, Ötztal, by Allan Hartley

The spotted gentian is a member of the large Gentiana genus, possibly named after the Illyrian king Gentius, who is said to have discovered its medicinal uses. It grows in Central and South Eastern Europe at altitudes of 1500-2600m. It is 20-60 cm tall and blooms between July and September.

The leaves and roots have been used in traditional Austrian medicine internally and externally as liqueur or tea the for treatment of disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, skin, locomotor system, liver and bile, for paediatric problems, fever, flu, rheumatism and gout. Nowadays it is probably better known as an ingredient of Enzian Schnapps and the roots can be used to produce bitters such as Underberg.

The spotted gentian is one of the species being tracked by the ÖAV biodiversity study 'Vielfalt begwegt! Alpenverein'.

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