Gentiana sceptrum, commonly known as King’s Scepter Gentian, is a perennial herb native to moist meadows, wetland margins, and sphagnum bogs in the Pacific Northwest, ranging from British Columbia to northern California. It typically grows up to 3 feet tall and features opposite, lanceolate to ovate leaves. The plant is known for its striking dark blue to purple trumpet-shaped flowers, which are 1.6-2 inches long and bloom in late summer to early fall. The flowers are highly attractive to pollinators and are considered showy, making them a highlight in the garden during their flowering season. The fruit is a capsule that releases seeds with small wings, aiding in their dispersal.

King’s Scepter Gentian is valued for its vibrant floral display and is used in wildflower gardens, bog gardens, and naturalized areas where its moisture requirements can be met. It prefers consistently moist to wet soils and full sun to part shade conditions. While not commonly found in cultivation, it can be a unique addition to gardens that can replicate its native wetland conditions. Gardeners should be aware that it may require protection from excessive winter wetness in colder climates.CC BY-SA 4.0