Gentian

Gentiana acaulis

Native to:
Albania, Austria, Bulgaria, Czechia-Slovakia, France, Germany, Italy, NW. Balkan Pen., Romania, Spain, Switzerland, Ukraine

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Gentianaceae
Genus:
Gentiana
Species:
Gentiana acaulis
USDA Symbol:
GEAC4

Growth Characteristics

Height:
10 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
Low
Bloom Months:
may,jun,jul
Bloom Colors:
blue
Ground Cover:
Yes

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
bees, butterflies
Deer Resistant:
Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
well-drained, humus-rich, acidic soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
consistently moist
Notes:
prefers alpine meadows and rocky slopes

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 30–90 days
Germination Time:
14–180 days
Notes:
Germination can be erratic and slow; light aids germination. Cool temperatures (50-60°F) are optimal.

The above propagation data sourced from Claude AI

ORGHPS Germination Guide: Use repeated cycles of 20°C, then 4°C for 3 months each. Germination is very prolonged. Germination is improved by using GA3. * avoid pricking out individually, transplant seedlings in clumps

Source: Ontario Rock Garden & Hardy Plant Society