Crested Gentian

Gentiana septemfida var. lagodechiana is one of the most reliable and easy-to-grow gentians for UK gardens, making it an excellent choice for those who find the high-alpine species too challenging. This deciduous perennial has a semi-prostrate habit, producing leafy, spreading stems that turn upwards at the tips. In late summer, each stem is crowned with a cluster of up to eight large, bell-shaped flowers of a rich, intense mid-blue, often with a paler, spotted throat. It is particularly valued because it does not require the specialist acidic soils that many autumn gentians demand; it will grow happily in any good, moist but well-drained garden soil including those with some lime. It is very hardy and performs best in a spot that stays relatively cool in summer. This gentian is perfect for adding a splash of blue to the rock garden or front of a border just as many other plants are beginning to fade. It requires very little maintenance once established.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Moist but well-drained loam.

Hardiness: H7 — below −20°C.

Flowering: Jul Shatter, Aug Shatter.