Overview
Gentiana sceptrum is a matforming, trailing herbaceous perennial in the genus Gentiana, part of the Gentianaceae family, with semi-evergreen, deciduous foliage. Gentiana sceptrum 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 sceptrum is a species of flowering plant in the family Gentianaceae. It is known by the common names king's scepter gentian or king's gentian.
About the genus
Gentiana is a genus of flowering plants belonging to the gentian family (Gentianaceae), the tribe Gentianeae, and the monophyletic subtribe Gentianinae. With over 300 species, it is considered a large genus. Gentians are notable for their mostly large trumpet-shaped flowers, which are often of an intense blue hue, though some are also bright yellow.
Wikipedia contributors, "Gentiana", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Gentiana
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 sceptrum 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 sceptrum
- 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 sceptrum?
Gentiana sceptrum prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Gentiana sceptrum need?
Gentiana sceptrum grows best in loam and sand soil. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Gentiana sceptrum hardy in the UK?
Gentiana sceptrum 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 sceptrum?
Division in spring.
