Yellow gentian and white germanium are two plants found in the Alpine region that are occasionally confused with each other. However, this is dangerous because, in contrast to yellow gentian, white germanium is highly poisonous. However, there are distinguishing features that can be used to tell the two plants apart.
How can you distinguish yellow gentian from white german?
To distinguish yellow gentian and white german, pay attention to the flower color (yellow vs. white) and the leaf position (cross-opposite for gentian, three-lined alternate for german). These characteristics help to separate the poisonous Germer plant from the harmless gentian.
Similarities between Yellow Gentian and White Germer
Both plants have arcuate leaves that are gray-blue in color.
The flowering times of yellow gentian and white german are also the same. They start in June and last until August.
Occurrence of yellow gentian and white germanium
Yellow gentian is currently still on the list of the Federal Species Protection Ordinance because the population was still endangered until recently. The main deposits are the European mountains and Turkey. The plant is avoided by grazing animals because of its bitter substance content.
White Germer is very common and is not protected. It is widespread in Europe in the Alps, the Apennines and in Eastern Europe.
Confusion with poisonous White Germer
Yellow gentian is a natural medicinal plant from which the famous gentian schnapps is also made. Confusion with the highly poisonous Germer is actually only possible as long as the two plants are not flowering.
As can be seen from the names, yellow gentian has yellow flowers, while germanium has white flowers.
When not in flower, the plants can be distinguished by their leaf base. The leaves of the yellow gentian are cross-opposite, while the leaves of the white gentian appear alternate in three rows.
White Germer is a poisonous plant
Unlike yellow gentian, white germanium is a poisonous plant. It is even classified as highly toxic. The rootstock in particular contains high concentrations of alkaloids.
White Germer was previously used naturopathically for rheumatism, high blood pressure, fever and depression. The plant was also used as a lice powder and even as arrow poison. Today, white Germer no longer plays a role in natural medicine because of the risk of poisoning.
In the event of poisoning, you should immediately consult a doctor who will initiate detoxification measures.
Tip
Yellow gentian contains a lot of bitter substances but hardly any tannins and is therefore very friendly to the stomach. That's why the roots of the plant are used to make gentian schnapps. Since the plant is very bitter, it is also often planted in the garden to ward off animals.