Gentiana nivalis (NL: "Sneeuwgentiaan" / EN: Snow Gentian / DE: Schnee-Enzian, Himmelstengel, Kelberberschis / FR: Gentiane des neiges) is an annual, delicate plant in the Gentianaceae family. The species grows about 5 to 15 cm high and has branched many-flowered stems. The crown is deep blue and about 8 to 15 mm wide. The corolla tube is up to 15 mm with five star-like spread lobes, which are often twisted propeller-like.
This species is widespread in the mountains of southern and central Europe and prefers stony soils, ridges on limestone and silicate between 1,300 to 3,000 m above sea level. Flowering period is from June to August.
The flowers are very sensitive to variations in temperature and solar radiation. Depending on cloud cover, you can find the flowers opening and closing several times within an hour.

Image: Brenta (IT) - 15/07/2011