Overview

Gentiana dentosa is a matforming, trailing herbaceous perennial in the genus Gentiana, part of the Gentianaceae family, with semi-evergreen, deciduous foliage. Gentiana dentosa grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates loam and sand soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include rock garden, container and border.

About

Gentiana dentosa is a matforming, trailing cultivar of the Gentiana genus, known for its trumpet-shaped blooms. It has semi-evergreen to deciduous foliage and thrives in full sun or partial shade, preferring east, south, or west-facing aspects. Suitable for both exposed and sheltered locations, it grows best in moist but well-drained loam or sandy soils with an acid to neutral pH. Hardy to UK zone H5, it is ideal for rock gardens, containers, or borders and is best planted after the last frost in fertile soil. Propagation is by division in spring, with winter providing seasonal interest.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Gentiana

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H5

Plant details

Gentiana dentosa size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial, Alpine Rockery
Habit
Matforming, Trailing
Foliage
Semi-evergreen, Deciduous
Suggested uses
Rock garden, Container, Border

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Gentiana dentosa

Propagation
Division in spring
Pest resistance
Slugs, Snails, Aphids, Red spider mite
Disease resistance
Rust, Stem rot

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Gentiana dentosa?

Gentiana dentosa prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Gentiana dentosa need?

Gentiana dentosa grows best in loam and sand soil. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

Is Gentiana dentosa hardy in the UK?

Gentiana dentosa has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.

How do I propagate Gentiana dentosa?

Division in spring.

More in the Gentiana genus

Browse all Gentiana