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Gentiana acaulis
trumpet gentian · Linnaeus, 1753, European Alps
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: trumpet gentian
- Height × spread: 3-6 in (8-15 cm) × 8-12 in (20-30 cm)
- Bloom window: late spring to early summer
- Color & flower form: deep blue, upward‑facing trumpets with green‑spotted throat
- Fragrance: 0 none
- USDA hardiness: zones 3-7
- Breeder / Year / Origin: Linnaeus, 1753, European Alps
- Awards/registration: RHS Award of Garden Merit
- Pet safety: unknown
How it differs
- Very low, stemless habit compared with many border gentians.
- Spring bloom rather than late summer to fall.
- Evergreen rosettes that form tight mats.
- Needs cool summers and sharp drainage to flower well.
Strengths
- Intense true blue trumpets.
- Compact footprint for rock work and troughs.
- Evergreen foliage in mild winters.
- Recognized for garden performance by the RHS.
Care in one minute
Site in full sun to part shade with shelter from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions.
Provide gritty, moist but sharply drained soil; pH acidic to neutral.
Water to keep evenly moist; never waterlog.
Feed lightly in spring with a balanced, slow‑release fertilizer.
Avoid heavy mulch around the crown; provide light gravel top‑dress for drainage.
In hot zones, give afternoon shade and extra air circulation.
Watch‑outs
- Can struggle in heat and humidity.
- Shy to flower if summers are warm.
- Roots resent standing water; requires sharp drainage.
Best uses (tags)
Provenance note
Native to the Alps and nearby European mountain ranges; formalized by Linnaeus in 1753.
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder – Gentiana acaulis
- North Carolina State Extension Plant Toolbox – Gentiana acaulis
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