Brilliant Blue Gentian Flowers in the Garden
Perennial Alpine Plant with Cobalt-Colored Blossoms
Jun 25, 2009
The gentian family has eighty-seven genera and more than 1600 species. They appear in many sizes, shapes, and colors within every continent except Antarctica. Within the family Gentiana, there are large trees in the rainforest and small annual alpine plants.
There are several species available at garden centres. The species Gentiana septemfida var. lagodechiana is an easy-to-grow herbaceous perennial. Some nurseries now classify this one as Gentiana septemfida.
Gentian Brilliant Blue Flowers
Of the many gentians available, Gentiana septemfida var. lagodechiana is one of the easiest to grow. It is also one of the showiest with its cobalt blue, upward-facing blossoms. The gorgeous, trumpet-shaped flowers appear singly or as clusters on the stems. Each blossom can measure more than one inch in length. This gentian’s natural flowering period is late July to early September.
The shiny, bright green leaves are broad and rounded at the base and tapered towards the tip (ovate). The plant forms a compact mound about eight inches high with branches that ascend as the flowers develop.
Alpine Perennial for Rock Garden or Border
The genus Gentiana is primarily alpine in nature. As such, it is perfect for a rock garden that represents its natural habitat. It is equally effective in a mixed perennial border. The plant grows best in sunny to partially-shaded locations. An ideal site is one where the gentian is in at least partial shade during the afternoon.
Gentiana septemfida var. lagodechiana, unlike other species, is not particular about the soil’s pH. It is not as finicky as some other species. The plant does best in sandy loam or light loam soil that is well drained, but never completely dried out. As other perennials, gentian is benefitted by an application of compost. It does not like to have its roots disturbed, so it’s best to be sure of permanent garden site before planting. Propagation by seeds is often difficult. This species is hardy in zones three to seven.
Gentian Pests and Viruses
The moth-hawk (Ocnogyna parasita) is known to feed on the plant, and some caterpillars feed on the flowers. Gentiana is occasionally affected by the clover yellow vein and the cucumber mosaic viruses.
Name Origin of Genus Gentiana
Humans have used various species of gentians as herbal remedies since ancient times. The genus was named for Gentius, an ancient king of Illyria, in the Adriatic Sea area. It is said that he discovered the medicinal properties of Gentiana lutea. That species produces yellow flowers on a plant that grows to a height of three feet. Its bitter roots are still used in the making of tonics.
It is extremely important that wild gentians are not removed from their natural habitat. As stated on the Gentian Research Network website, “Many gentians are endangered due to destruction of their habitats. They will rarely survive the transplantation and many are close to extinction, so get these pretty plants from nurseries or grow them from seeds.”
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