About
Gentiana paradoxa, the Caucasian gentian, is a compact, mat-forming perennial to 20 cm tall with whorls of narrow leaves and clusters of brilliant, electric-blue, trumpet-shaped flowers with white throats spotted purple in late summer and autumn. One of the most intensely blue of all autumn-flowering gentians.
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.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeAlpine Rockery, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitMatforming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants, Rock garden, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden
Native toCaucasus
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moist but well-drained, lime-free soil or compost in full sun
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed
Pest resistanceSlugs, snails and aphids may be seen
Disease resistanceRoot rot may occur