Overview

Gentianella uliginosa is a columnar upright annual biennial in the genus Gentianella, part of the Gentianaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Gentianella uliginosa grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, rock garden, wildflower meadow, wildlife gardens and flower borders and beds.

About

Gentianella uliginosa, known as dune gentian, is a columnar upright annual or biennial plant from the Gentianaceae family. It is deciduous and thrives in full sun, favouring east, south, or west-facing aspects in both exposed and sheltered locations. This cultivar prefers fertile, well-drained chalk, loam, or sandy soils with neutral to alkaline pH. Hardy to UK zone H7, it is suitable for cottage and informal gardens, rock gardens, wildflower meadows, wildlife gardens, and flower borders. Its season of interest spans spring and summer, and it is propagated by seed.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Gentianella

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Gentianella uliginosa size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Annual Biennial
Habit
Columnar upright
Foliage
Deciduous
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden, Rock garden, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens, Flower borders and beds

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Gentianella uliginosa

Propagation
Seed
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Gentianella uliginosa?

Gentianella uliginosa prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Gentianella uliginosa need?

Gentianella uliginosa is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It prefers alkaline and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.

Is Gentianella uliginosa hardy in the UK?

Gentianella uliginosa has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.

How do I propagate Gentianella uliginosa?

Seed.

More in the Gentianella genus

Browse all Gentianella