About

A diminutive evergreen perennial slowly forming a mat of narrowly ovate leaves to a height of just 4cm, with white flowers, opening in late spring and early summer.

About the genus

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

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5

Plant details

Plant typeAlpine Rockery
HabitMatforming
FoliageEvergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Rock garden

Care notes

CultivationGrow in light, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in plenty of sun. Ideal for containers. See sink and trough gardening for more information
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by division after flowering
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs, snails, glasshouse red spider mite and aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to a rust and soil fungal diseases