Characteristics

• Gentian's dark green, sometimes glossy foliage has deep veins that run the length of the leaves, creating deep ridges. The flowers sit above the foliage in clusters. All species are blue, and some have a white throat. Sizes vary, from low-growing, trailing species that only grow a few inches tall to stiff, upright varieties that reach heights of 18 to 24 inches. Gentians begin blooming in midsummer and continue until late summer or early fall.
  
  

Species

• Crested gentian (G. septemfida) grows only a few inches high but produces trailing stems that spread up to 18 inches. The stems turn up at the ends and carry single flowers. Bottle gentians (G. andrewsii) produce clusters of flowers atop upright stems that grow 18 to 24 inches tall. Willow gentian grows 1 to 3 feet tall with willowlike leaves and flowers with purple spotted throats that bloom in sprays along the upper half of the stem among the foliage.
  
  

Cultivation

• Gentians have a reputation for being difficult to grow, but given the right climate and setting, some species perform well in the garden without a lot of fuss. They need a humus-rich, evenly moist soil in full sun or partial shade. In hot, southern climates, the foliage browns in the intense afternoon sun, so provide some shade during the hottest part of the day. Unless the soil is particularly rich, amend it with compost before planting gentians. Once established, the plants don't like to be disturbed, so plant them in a permanent location. The hardiness varies depending on the species, but most perform well in U.S. Department of Agriculture zones 5 to 7.
  
  

Propagation

• Propagating gentians is a challenge. Divide clump-forming types in March or April by lifting the clump and gently separating the roots as best you can. The plants resent the disturbance and may take time to recover. You can propagate all types from seed. The seeds must ripen on the plant and be planted while fresh. Seeds that dry are unlikely to germinate. Plants grown from seeds take several years to flower. Root cuttings from the tips of new growth in spring or early summer.