Gentiana acaulis

This is regarded as one of the worlds most spectacular alpine plants. It is one of 400 species of Gentian. The genus is found in many countries of the world including New Zealand.

Gentian acaulis is native of Europe where it has been well know for 100's of years.

It is the best known and loved of the gentians and in th garden can be used in a rock garden or at the front of a border. Its neat compact tufted clusters of dark green leaves makes it an attractive plant all year round. In early spring signs of large trumpet shaped flowers can be seen emerging from the foliage. These long sharp ended sausage shaped buds soon open to produce a wide mouthed trumpet shaped rich deep blue flower of exquisite quality. The interior markings are to be seen to be believed.

To really grow successfully plant it in a sunny or even very sunny spot on the gardem as long as it has a long, deep root run. If it is not happy in its situation it will not flower.

Overseas a number of forms have been selected and they include gentiana acaulis 'Alba', 'Alpina', 'Azura', and 'Gigantea'