Gentianella campestris
field gentian
A native annual or biennial found in the north of the country, especially in the Scottish Highlands, producing a basal rosette of small, narrow leaves often flushed with dark red. In mid-summer to early autumn produces upright stems to about 20cm high crowned with a cluster of tubular flowers that are usually bluish-purple but may be pink or white
Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0–0.1 metreGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Blue Pink Purple White | Green | ||
| Autumn | Blue Pink Purple White | Green | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Gentianaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Naturally occurs in open grassland, on stable dunes and riverbanks. Prefers well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil in an sunny, open position
Propagation
Propagate by seed
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Rock garden
- Wildflower meadow
- Wildlife gardens
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.