About
In autumn, upward-facing, narrowly trumpet-shaped blue flowers flushed with violet are produced at the tips of the stems. A long-flowering perennial, with a basal rosette of lance-shaped, lime green leaves. This is a compact cultivar, to around 5cm high. A purple-flowered selection.
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
HabitMatforming
FoliageSemi evergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden
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 division in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails, and to aphids and red spider mite when grown under glass
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to a rust, and to stem rot caused by soil fungus