Closed gentian
Gentiana andrewsii
Closed gentian is a striking native perennial prized for its deep blue bottle-shaped flowers that remain closed at the tip, requiring strong bumblebees to force their way inside for pollination. It prefers consistently moist, humus-rich soil and partial shade, mimicking its natural streamside and meadow habitats. This plant can be challenging to establish but is long-lived once settled; avoid disturbing its roots and mulch well to retain soil moisture.
Care Level
High
Sun
Partial Shade
Water
Moderate
Growth Rate
Moderate
Mature Height
120″ – 360″
Soil
loam
Life Cycle
Perennial
Spacing
18″
Flowers
purple
Watering Schedule
Every 5-7 Days • Water Consistently To Keep Soil Evenly Moist But Not Saturated; Do Not Allow The Soil To Dry Out Completely
Soil pH
5.8 – 7.2
Temperature
-25° – 95°F
Mature Spread
up to 180″
Root Depth
Medium
Foliage
Fine
Propagation: Seed
Native to
Attracts
Sources
Data: trefle, usda
Image: trefle.io — Taken Sep 28, 2020 by Jackie Hodgson (cc-by-sa)
No nurseries currently have this species in stock.