About

A compact, mat-forming, semi-evergreen perennial to 15cm tall with glossy, linear, grass-like foliage.Trailing stems bear large, trumpet-shaped, bright blue double flowers from late summer into autumn.

About the genus

Gentiana can be annuals, biennials, herbaceous or evergreen perennials, mostly with showy, trumpet or salver-shaped flowers

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, North-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5

Plant details

Plant typeAlpine Rockery, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitMatforming
FoliageSemi evergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden, Gravel garden

Care notes

CultivationGrow in moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil in partial shade. Suitable for a rock garden
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by division in spring
Pest resistanceSlugs, snails and aphids may be a nuisance
Disease resistanceProne to root rot