Fringed Gentian

Fringed Gentian (Gentianopsis crinita) is one of the star wildflowers of fall.  While Fringed Gentians grow in many Eastern states and provinces, they aren't particularly common anywhere.  I've only seen them in wet, sunny places.  Many years I miss them completely, but they are in bloom now and certainly worth looking for.  Gentians are often associated with calcareous soil (rich in calcium carbonate).  They are a biennial plant, living for two years.