About
This variable, clump-forming perennial, 30-60cm high, with oval-shaped leaves edged with rough hairs. Flowers can be produced from late spring well into autumn. Upright stems bear smaller, narrower leaves and violet-blue bell- or funnel-shaped flowers, singly or in small clusters, that are paler in the throat and sometimes have yellow-green speckles.
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
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial, Alpine Rockery
HabitClump forming
FoliageSemi evergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden
Native toE Asia
Care notes
CultivationGrow in reliably moist but well-drained, humus-rich, acid or neutral soil, will not tolerate drought or waterlogging. Thrives in locations with cool, damp summers, where it is best positioned in full sun; in areas with hot, dry summers these plants are best grown in afternoon shade
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed or by division in spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free