Gentiana scabra
A variable, clump-forming perennial, 30-60cm high, with oval-shaped leaves edged with rough hairs. Upright stems bear smaller, narrower leaves and violet-blue bell- or funnel-shaped flowers, singly or in small clusters, that are paler in the throat and sometimes have yellow-green speckles. Flowers can be produced from late spring well into autumn
![](https://apps.rhs.org.uk/plantselectorimages/detail/brer04542.jpg)
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, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Blue Purple | Green | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Blue Purple | Green | ||
Autumn | Blue Purple | Green | ||
Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Gentianaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Semi evergreen
- 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
- E Asia
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in reliably moist but well-drained, humus-rich, acid or neutral soil, will not tolerate drought or waterlogging. Thrives in locations with cool, damp summers, where it is best positioned in full sun; in areas with hot, dry summers these plants are best grown in afternoon shade
Propagation
Propagate by seed or by division in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Gravel garden
- Patio and container plants
- Rock garden
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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