Gentiana verna
spring gentian
A diminutive evergreen perennial slowly forming a mat of narrowly ovate leaves, with solitary, erect, deep sky-blue flowers with white throats, opening in late spring and early summer
Size
Ultimate height
Up to 10cmTime to ultimate height
2鈥�5 yearsUltimate spread
0鈥�0.1 metreGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well鈥揹rainedpH
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Blue | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Blue | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South鈥揻acing or 奥别蝉迟鈥揻补肠颈苍驳
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Gentianaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Matforming
- Genus
Gentiana can be annuals, biennials, herbaceous or evergreen perennials, mostly with showy, trumpet or salver-shaped flowers
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Europe
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in light, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in plenty of sun
Propagation
Propagate by seed in containers in an open frame as soon as seed is ripe. Propagate by division or root offsets in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Patio and container plants
- Rock garden
- Gravel garden
- Garden edging
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Slugs and snails may be a problem outdoors. Under glass, watch out for aphids and glasshouse red spider mite
Diseases
Gentian rust may be a problem and various soil fungi may cause stem rots
Gentiana verna
spring gentian
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