Bitter Bloom, Rosepink
Sabatia angularis

Family: Gentianaceae

What it is like

Sabatia angularis is a ANNUAL/BIENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). 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): 1

Where it is found

Rich soils in open woods, clearings, fields and prairies.

Eastern N. America - New York to Ontario, south to Florida and Louisiana.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

A tonic tea is obtained from the plant. The part of the plant is not specified.

Tea: the various herb teas that can be used in place of tea, plus the genuine article.

Medicine

Rating: 1

Antiperiodic, tonic. Used as a bitter stomachic, similar in its action to Gentiana lutea. An infusion of the plant has been used to treat period pains.

Antiperiodic: Counteracts recurring illnesses such as malaria.

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

Other

Rating:

How it is grown

Requires a moist soil. This species provides an excellent cut flower.

Propagating it: Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in late summer or early autumn. Sow in a peaty soil in a moist shady border or sow in pots in a shady part of the cold frame and keep the soil moist by standing the pot in 2 - 3cm of water.

Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;

Habit: Annual/Biennial

Hardiness: 5-9

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

Sabbatia angularis.(L.)Pursh.