showy prairie gentian

Eustoma russellianum has blue-green waxy leaves and showy bell shaped flowers in blue pink or white each borne singly on an upright plant. Depending on growing conditions it may present as an annual, biennial, or perennial plant.

It is found primarily in the Great Plains region of North America, from Wyoming southeast to Nebraska, and south to Texas and Mexico. Due to its popularity and the frequency with which it is picked, it has been unable to naturally reseed itself in its native distribution. It prefers moist, sandy soils and often grows near streams, creek-beds, moist meadows, and springs.

Prairie gentian is a popular garden flower, and has been cultivated in Japan for over 70 years. Many varieties, including those with double petals, or a variety of colored flowers, have been developed. It is not often attempted in native wildflower gardens due to its high moisture requirements and short lifespan.