Overview
Swertia chirata is a plant with a clump-forming habit in the genus Swertia, part of the Gentianaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Swertia chirata grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates loam and sand soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include border and woodland garden.
About
Swertia chirata (chirata) is a clump-forming deciduous plant from the Gentianaceae family. It thrives in fertile, well-drained loam or sandy soils that are moist and range from acid to neutral pH. Suitable for full sun or partial shade, it prefers sheltered south- or west-facing aspects. Hardy to UK zone H4, it is ideal for borders or woodland gardens and is most notable in spring and summer. Propagation can be done by seed or division.
About the genus
Swertia is a genus in the gentian family containing plants sometimes referred to as the felworts. Some species bear very showy purple and blue flowers. Many members of this genus have medicinal and cultural purposes.
Wikipedia contributors, "Swertia", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Swertia
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Swertia
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Swertia chirata size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Clump-forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Border, Woodland garden
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Swertia chirata
- Propagation
- Seed, Division
- Pest resistance
- Average
- Disease resistance
- Average
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Swertia chirata?
Swertia chirata prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Swertia chirata need?
Swertia chirata grows best in loam and sand soil. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.
Is Swertia chirata hardy in the UK?
Swertia chirata has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Swertia chirata?
Seed, Division.