Gentiana lutea

Yellow gentian is best known for its rootstock, which can be as thick as a human arm. Roots are used medicinally, as a flavoring agent in vermouth, and to make gentian schnapps. We love this plant for its height, longevity, and durability.

This lime-loving mountain denizen is best grown in rich, moist but-well drained sandy loam in full sun to part shade. This is a slow-grower that may take many years to come into flower. Will not tolerate much humidity, heavy soil, or drought.

Zones: 3 to 7

Family: Gentianaceae

Type: Perennial

Height: 24 to 36 in.

Spread: 12 to 24 in.

Exposure: Full sun

Soil Conditions: lime-loving, calcareous, well-drained, average

Bloom Time: June to August

Bloom Color: Pure Yellow

Native Range: central and southern European

Image Credits:

• Heinz Staudacher, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons