About
Gentiana andrewsii, the bottle gentian or closed gentian, is a distinctive North American herbaceous perennial producing clusters of deep-blue, bottle-shaped flowers that never fully open � pollinated only by bumblebees strong enough to force the petals apart. A rewarding and unusual gentian for a moist border or naturalised planting.
About the genus
Gentiana, the gentians, are annuals, biennials and herbaceous or evergreen perennials producing mostly showy, trumpet-, funnel- or salver-shaped flowers, famously in brilliant blue but also in white, yellow and purple. They range from tiny alpine cushion plants to tall border perennials and include species for every season.
Plant details
Suggested usesBedding, containers, hanging baskets.
Care notes
CultivationPlant out after last frost in fertile, well-drained soil.
PruningDeadhead regularly to prolong flowering.
PropagationGrow from seed sown in spring.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free. Monitor for common garden pests.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-resistant. Ensure good air circulation.