Gentiana-Crested Gentian

Propagating Gentiana or Crested Gentian can prove be to a tough venture because it doesn’t take kindly to transplanting but it should be done every three years because their roots become congested so digging up the plant and separating the crowns should be accomplished in the spring for this deciduous perennial. It is a wildflower that grows in woodlands in an acidic well drained leaf moldy soil and flowers in late summer to frost in either a vivid blue or yellow, depending upon variety. It can grow up to 4' in height and will tolerate drought conditions and a dappled sunny environment and although butterflies find their nectar enticing deer tend to resist the plant.