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Herbaceous Perennial

Gentiana asclepiadea

willow gentian

An herbaceous perennial to 1m, with arching stems bearing lanceolate leaves. Trumpet-shaped, deep blue flowers 4-5cm in length, appear in the upper leaf axils in late summer and early autumn

Other common names
milkweed gentian

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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring
Summer Blue Green
Autumn Blue Green
Winter
Position
  • Partial shade
Aspect

East–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Gentianaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Genus

Gentiana can be annuals, biennials, herbaceous or evergreen perennials, mostly with showy, trumpet or salver-shaped flowers

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Europe to Iran

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in light, humus-rich soil that is reliably moist but well-drained; avoid chalky soils. It needs shade from hot sun but in areas with cool, damp summers it can tolerate sun

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown in pots in an open frame as soon as seed is ripe

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Rock garden
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Cut flowers
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Underplanting of roses and shrubs
Pruning

No pruning required LJD

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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