Ague Weed
Gentianella quinquefolia

Family: Gentianaceae

What it is like

Gentianella quinquefolia is a ANNUAL/BIENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). It is in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Height (m): 0.6

Where it is found

Rich woods and moist fields.

Eastern N. America - southern Ontario to Tennessee and Florida.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 0

Medicine

Rating: 2

The root is cathartic, febrifuge, haemostatic, stimulant and stomachic. A tea or tincture of the root is a bitter tonic, used to stimulate the digestion and a poor appetite. An infusion has also been used to treat diarrhoea, sore chest, worms and haemorrhages. A homeopathic remedy is made from the root. It is used in the treatment of intermittent fevers and as a stomachic and tonic.

Bitter: Increases the appetite and stimulates digestion by acting on the mucous membranes of the mouth. Also increases the flow of bile, stimulates repair of the gut wall lining and regulates the secretion of insulin and glucogen.

Cathartic: A strong laxative but less violent than a purgative.

Febrifuge: Reduces fevers.

Haemostatic: Controls internal bleeding.

Homeopathy: A plant used in homeopathic treatments.

Stomachic: Aids and improves the action of the stomach.

Tonic: Improves general health. Slower acting than a stimulant, it brings steady improvement.

Other

Rating:

How it is grown

Requires a damp humus-rich soil and should be planted in a situation approaching its native habitat.

Propagating it: Seed - must be sown in situ as soon as it is ripe in the autumn.

Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Cultivated Beds;

Habit: Annual/Biennial

Hardiness:

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Gentiana quinqueflora. L. emend Sm. Gentiana quinquefolia.