Caucasian Gentian

A stunning and somewhat unique member of the Gentiana family, Gentiana paradoxa originates from the Caucasus mountains and is well-suited to British rock gardens. Unlike many of its cousins that form prostrate mats, this species produces elegant, arching stems clothed in fine, needle-like foliage that gives it a soft, textural appearance. In late summer and early autumn, it produces large, trumpet-shaped flowers of an intense, brilliant azure blue with distinctive darker stripes and spotting inside the throat. One of its greatest advantages for the UK gardener is its relative ease of cultivation compared to the temperamental autumn-flowering hybrids; it is more tolerant of different soil types, including slightly alkaline conditions, provided the drainage is impeccable. It enjoys a cool root run and consistent moisture during the growing season. This hardy perennial is perfect for adding a late-season splash of vivid blue to a sunny or partially shaded rockery. It reaches a height of roughly 15-20cm and spreads slowly to form a graceful clump.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil.

Hardiness: H5 — down to −15°C.

Flowering: Aug shatter, Sep, Oct Shatter.