True Blue Gentiana

This perennial flies under the radar, but once you see it, it will become a fast favorite. True Blue Gentiana hybrid blooms have an electric blue radiance that is simply captivating. Smooth lance-shaped leaves branch out along individual stems. The branching stems hold the delicate upward facing, cobalt blue tubular flowers. Bring something different to spruce up your perennial garden.You won’t find hungry deer nibbling on this beauty, but you will find an abundance of butterflies and hummingbirds visiting your garden. Gentian is medium in size and reaches 30 inches in height. It is the perfect height specifically for the middle of a border. Try this lovely in a container as a thriller. Use a simple glass vase to create an appealing flower arrangement straight from your garden.True Blue Gentiana CareThis perennial is slow-growing and easy to care for as long as its needs are met. Once planted, pinching the tips will help the plant branch and induce more flowers. A combination of Summer heat or afternoon sun is not ideal. Find a location that stays cool and gets morning sun and afternoon shade. Soil should be average to loamy and can range from acidic to alkaline. As long as the soil is regularly watered and well draining, expect to see this plant return year after year.Gentian can handle temperate zones from 4 to 7. Clay soils can hold onto water and are less than ideal. A sandier or humus like soil will increase the odds of this plant surviving over winter. Apply an annual application of fertilizer or compost in the Spring to keep growth vigorous.True Blue Gentiana SpacingSpace plants 12 to 18 inches apart from each other when planting in the landscape. Try planting different textures of plants that can be complementing companions. Ornamental alliums, coreopsis, echinacea, and dianthus would all be great additions to create that eclectic garden you are after.True Blue Gentiana InformationUSDA Hardiness Zones: 4-7Plant Type: PerennialSunlight Exposure: Partial Sun to Full SunMature Height: 2 – 2.5 FeetMature Width: 12 – 18 InchesPlant Spacing: 12 – 18 InchesGrowth Habit: UprightFlower Color(s): BlueSeasonal Interest: Mid Summer Late Summer Early FallFoliage Type: HerbaceousFoliage Color(s): GreenAttracts: Butterflies, HummingbirdsResists: DeerFeatures: Attracts Pollinators, Cut Flowers, Deadheading Not Necessary, Low MaintenanceUses: Border Plant Cut FlowerPlant Brand: Proven WinnersBotanical/Scientific Name: True Blue Gentiana hybrid USPP 20,433