Gentian

Gentians are the inspiration for the name of a color: gentian blue. Their star-shape trumpet flowers are usually the deepest, richest blue with a touch of purple -- definitely in a color category all by themselves.

The plants are a varied group. White, red, and yellow types are also available. Some plant forms are low-growing alpine sorts, excellent for rock gardens, as well as some taller ones, suited to damp woodland sites. The spectacular flowers make a strong impact in rock gardens and borders alike.

Light:

Sun,Part Sun,Shade

Zones:

3-9

Plant Type:

Perennial

Plant Height:

3 inches to 5 feet tall

Plant Width:

6 inches to 2 feet wide

Landscape Uses:

Containers,Beds & Borders

Special Features:

Flowers,Attractive Foliage,Fragrant,Fall Color,Cut Flowers,Tolerates Wet Soil

Top Varieties

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Bottle gentian

Gentiana andrewsii carries pairs of dark green oblong leaves on stems that may reach 2 feet tall. The flowers are borne in clusters at the tops of the stems. They are bottle-shape, never open, and are mostly dark blue. Zones 3-7
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Garden Plans

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Summer Rock Garden

Plant It With

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Basket-of-gold

Low-growing gentians contrast beautifully with vibrant yellow basket-of-gold flowers in spring. Both appreciate well-drained soil.

Turtlehead

Turtleheads bloom with spikes of pink or white inflated flowers and assort well with closed gentians in late summer and fall.

Blue oat grass

Blue oatgrass provides an informal companion for closed gentians. Its fine blue-green grassy leaves blend beautifully with closed or bottle gentians.