Gentiana septemfida
A summer‑flowering, mat‑forming gentian from western and central Asia. Trailing stems carry clusters of mid‑blue trumpets that open in late summer. Plants prefer moist but well‑drained, humus‑rich soils and full sun in cool regions. It is among the easier gentians for rock gardens where summers are not extreme.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: crested or summer gentian
- Height × spread: 6-10 in (15-25 cm) × 12-18 in (30-45 cm)
- Bloom window: late summer
- Color & flower form: mid‑blue trumpets in small clusters
- Fragrance: 0 none
- USDA hardiness: unknown / varies by climate
- Breeder / Year / Origin: Pallas, 1776, W and C Asia
- Awards/registration: RHS Award of Garden Merit
- Pet safety: unknown
How it differs
- Summer bloom earlier than many autumn Chinese gentians.
- Low, trailing habit instead of upright border form.
- Reported tolerance of a wider soil pH range than lime‑hating autumn types.
- Often easier to establish than high‑alpine species.
Strengths
- Reliable summer blue color in cool climates.
- Compact habit for front of border and rock work.
- Recognized with RHS AGM for garden merit.
Care in one minute
- Grow in full sun in cool regions; provide light afternoon shade where summers are hot.
- Use humus‑rich, evenly moist, free‑draining soil; avoid waterlogging.
- Water during dry spells to keep soil from drying out.
- Apply a light spring feed; do not overfertilize.
- Divide clumps in spring if needed and replant promptly.
Watch‑outs
- Can be prone to root rot in poorly drained soil.
- Susceptible to slugs, snails, and aphids in damp summers.
- Flowering may pause in prolonged heat.
Best uses (tags)
rock gardens, edging, borders, containers
Provenance note
Native across the Caucasus and adjacent areas of W and C Asia; long in cultivation and selected in many forms.
References
- RHS – Gentiana septemfida (AGM)
- Kew – Plants of the World Online, Gentiana septemfida
- North American Rock Garden Society – Gentiana overview
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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