Triosteum himalayanum
Himalayan gentian
A clump-forming perennial to around 60cm high, with oval to elliptic, softly hairy leaves held in pairs along the stems. Small clusters of greenish yellow flowers with reddish-purple insides are produced in whorls around the tip of the stem in late spring and early summer, followed by whitish berries that ripen to red and persist into winter
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green Yellow Red Purple | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green Yellow Red Purple | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or West–facing or South–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Caprifoliaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Bhutan India Nepal
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil, ideally in light or part shade with shelter from cold winds. May tolerate full sun where soils are consistently moist. Ideal for a woodland garden
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown in a cold frame in spring, keep moist
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- 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.
