Closed Bottle Gentian

(Gentiana andrewsii)

Closed Bottle Gentian (Gentiana andrewsii)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Gentiana andrewsii, commonly known as Closed Bottle Gentian, is a deciduous perennial herb native to moist meadows, wet prairies, and damp forest clearings in the Eastern and Central United States, as well as parts of Canada. It typically grows to a height of 1 to 2 feet (30-60 cm) and spreads 1 foot (30 cm) wide. The plant features striking, deep blue to purple, bottle-shaped flowers with closed mouths, which bloom from late summer into fall (August to October). The flowers are clustered at the stem tops or in the leaf axils, and despite being closed, they are still pollinated by bumblebees that are strong enough to force their way in. The foliage is lance-shaped, hairless, and has a glossy sheen.

Closed Bottle Gentian is valued for its unique flowers that add a splash of color to the late-season garden. It is often used in native plant gardens, rain gardens, and woodland gardens. This plant is relatively low maintenance, but it requires consistently moist soil and does not tolerate dry conditions well. It prefers part shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates if kept moist. Closed Bottle Gentian is not typically afflicted by serious pests or diseases, but it can be slow to establish and may require patience to achieve a full, robust appearance. It is not known to be invasive and does not have aggressive roots.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1-2 feet
  • Width: 1-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Blue, Purple
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Showy Flowers, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Moist meadows, wet prairies, and damp forest clearings

Other Names

Common Names: Andrews’ Bottle Gentian, Andrews’ Gentian, Bottle Gentian, Closed Blue Gentian, Closed Gentian, Gentiane D’Andrews

Scientific Names: , Gentiana andrewsii, Gentiana catesbaei, Pneumonanthe andrewsii, Gentiana andrewsii f. albiflora, Gentiana andrewsii var. albiflora, Gentiana clausa f. albiflora, Cuttera catesbei, Dasystephana andrewsii, Dasystephana andrewsii f. albiflora

GBIF Accepted Name: Gentiana andrewsii Griseb.