Gentiana acaulis from Vercors, France

Alpine Rockery Herbaceous Perennial

An evergreen perennial forming a mat to 30cm in width, with paired, narrowly elliptic leaves and solitary deep blue, trumpet-shaped flowers 6cm in length, spotted green inside, borne on short erect stalks. A great choice for rock gardens

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Size

Time to Maturity
1–2 years

Growing Conditions

Chalk Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Gentianaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
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

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil in sun or partial shade

Propagation

Propagate by seed or division of offsets in spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Rock garden
  • Ground cover

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs, snails and aphids

Diseases

May be susceptible to root rot