Dahurian Gentian

Unlike many of the temperamental high-altitude gentians, Gentiana dahurica is a robust and rewarding species for the UK garden. It forms a decorative rosette of long, arching, dark green leaves from which several sprawling stems emerge in mid to late summer. These stems bear clusters of deep, trumpeted, purplish-blue flowers at the tips and in the upper leaf axils. This species is significantly more tolerant of garden conditions than the 'acaulis' types, and it does not require acidic soil, making it a great choice for those on chalk or limestone. It appreciates a site that doesn't dry out completely in the summer but still offers good drainage. It is particularly effective in a large rockery or at the front of a well-drained herbaceous border where its late-season colour is highly valued. It is fully hardy and generally long-lived.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Well-drained, humus-rich soil.

Hardiness: H5 — down to −15°C.

Flowering: Jul, Aug.