Gentiana andrewsii

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Gentiana Andrewsii 7 Gentiana Andrewsii 6 Gentiana Andrewsii (1) Gentiana Andrewsii 5 Gentiana Andrewsii 2 Gentiana Andrewsii 1
Gentiana Andrewsii 7 Gentiana Andrewsii 6 Gentiana Andrewsii (1) Gentiana Andrewsii 5 Gentiana Andrewsii 2 Gentiana Andrewsii 1

Gentiana andrewsii

Common Name: Bottle Gentian

Bottle Gentian is a unique, late-blooming wildflower growing 1-2 feet tall. It thrives in moist prairies, woodland edges, and thickets. The deep blue, bottle-shaped flowers never fully open, relying on bumblebees to force the flower open for pollination during the months of August and September. This species prefers loamy or sandy soils with good moisture retention. It is valuable for native plant gardens, rain gardens, and pollinator-friendly landscapes, offering late-season nectar sources.

Characteristics

Product Form Plant
Type Forb
Sun Full Sun, Partial Sun
Soil Clay, Loam, Sand/Gravel, Peat, Calcareous
Moisture Wet
Average Max Height (inches) 26
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches) 15
Bloom month(s) August, September
Bloom Color or Type Blue, Violet
Dominance Low

Range Maps

Sowing Information

For most homeowners, the recommended method is to hand-broadcast seed at a minimum rate of 16–64 PLS (Pure Live Seed) ounces per acre. To ensure even coverage, broadcast the seed in perpendicular passes across the site. Grass seed should be broadcast first and lightly raked into the soil. Afterward, apply a light mulch layer using clean, seed-free straw or, preferably, our native Little Bluestem straw, available at our retail garden centers. Once mulching is complete, broadcast native wildflower seed over the area without raking it in. A good rainfall or thorough watering will provide sufficient soil contact for successful germination.

Planting Information

Dig a hole in your planting site slightly larger than the plant’s root system. When placing the plant into the hole, ensure that the soil line remains consistent with its original level in the pot. Fill in around the roots with the excavated soil, gently firming it to eliminate air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly the same day to promote successful establishment.