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Alpine RockeryHerbaceous Perennial

Gentiana paradoxa

Caucasian gentian

A compact, mat-forming perennial to 20cm tall. Upright stems are clothed in whorls of narrow leaves and terminate in clusters of upward-facing, trumpet flowers in late summer and autumn. The electric blue flowers have white throats with rows of purple spots

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

South–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Gentianaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Matforming
Genus

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

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Caucasus

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in moist but well-drained, lime-free soil or compost in full sun

Propagation

Propagate by seed

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Patio and container plants
  • Rock garden
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Ground cover
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Slugs, snails and aphids may be seen

Diseases

Root rot may occur

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