About
Gentiana septemfida, the crested gentian, is a low-growing perennial to 20 cm with trailing stems clothed in paired, oval leaves and ending in clusters of mid-blue, trumpet-shaped flowers 4 cm long in late summer. One of the most reliable and rewarding of all summer gentians, tolerating a wider range of soils than most of the genus.
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 typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectNorth-facing, West-facing, South-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeAlpine Rockery, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitTrailing
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Rock garden
Native toW & C Asia
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil. Suitable for the front of borders. Performs best in sunny conditions
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed or division of offsets in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs, snails and aphids
Disease resistanceProne to root rot