Gentiana lutea

RHS Plant Profile
great yellow gentian

Other common names

feldwode, yellow gentian, yellow-flowered gentian

Herbaceous Perennial

A clump-forming perennial with a basal rosette of large, ovate green leaves with deeply impressed veins. In mid to late summer, a tall flowering stem with clasping leaves produces whorls of bright yellow flowers

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

1-1.5 metres

Max Spread

0.5-1 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.5-1 metres
Max Height
1-1.5 metres

Growing Conditions

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

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
East–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
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

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in reliably moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil in sun or part shade. Thrives in locations with cool, damp summers. Will not tolerate drought or waterlogging

Propagation

Propagate by division in spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Prairie planting
  • Wildflower meadow
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs and snails

Diseases

Generally disease-free