Orangefruit Horse-Gentian
Triosteum aurantiacum
- Native to:
- Canada, United States, Virgin Islands
R. A. Nonenmacher
Taxonomy
- Division:
- Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
- Family:
- Caprifoliaceae
- Genus:
- Triosteum
- Species:
- Triosteum aurantiacum
- USDA Symbol:
- TRAU4
Growth Characteristics
- Life Cycle:
- Perennial
- Growth Habit:
- Forb/herb
- Height:
- 120 cm
- Light Requirements:
- Full Sun
- Drought Tolerance:
- Medium
- Bloom Months:
- may,jun
- Bloom Colors:
- yellowish-green, purple
Wildlife Benefits
- Butterflies & Moths:
- ★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)
Reported Fauna Sightings
Moths:Sympistis forbesi
Garden & Ecology Notes
- Wildlife Value:
- birds, small mammals
- Fall Color:
- red, orange
Soil Requirements
- Soil Type:
- rich, well-drained loamy soil
- pH:
- 5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Drainage:
- excellent drainage required
- Moisture:
- consistently moist
- Notes:
- prefers woodland or forest edges
Propagation & Germination
- Stratification:
- Cold/moist stratification required — 60–90 days
- Germination Time:
- 30–60 days
- Notes:
- Seeds benefit from cold stratification for 60-90 days to break dormancy.
Pre-treatment: Cold-moist stratification for 30 days at 1–5°C (34–41°F).
Source: Claude AI
ORGHPS Germination Guide: Expose to fluctuation outdoor winter temperatures including freezing for 3 months. Gradually increase light and temperature in the spring. * see http://botanicallyinclined.org/fridays-seeds-or-is-it-a-fruit-triosteum/2017/
Where to Buy
Nationwide Seller
- Prairie Moon Nursery (nursery and seeds)