• A striking cluster of Gentiana affinis (Pleated Gentian) with deep blue, trumpet-shaped flowers arranged along a sturdy stem. The petals are speckled with darker blue markings, while the greenish-white throat is visible inside the blooms. The narrow, pointed leaves provide a contrasting backdrop.
  • A pair of Gentiana affinis (Pleated Gentian) plants in full bloom, their vivid blue flowers standing out against a sunlit meadow. The delicate pleats along the petals add texture, while unopened buds hint at more blossoms to come. The slender, silvery-green leaves extend outward from the base.
  • A well-established Gentiana affinis (Pleated Gentian) plant with multiple flower spikes, each topped with clusters of vibrant blue blooms. The plant's upright habit and dense foliage create a striking contrast against the surrounding greenery in its natural habitat.
  • A detailed close-up of a single Gentiana affinis (Pleated Gentian) flower, highlighting its intricate pleated petals and speckled blue markings. The pale greenish-white throat glows in the sunlight, drawing attention to the delicate filaments and pollen-covered anthers nestled inside.
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Wild About Flowers

Gentiana affinis - Pleated Gentian

Gentiana affinis - Pleated Gentian

$8.00 CAD
$8.00 CAD
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Pleated Gentian is a striking late-season perennial with deep blue, tubular flowers that remain partially closed, giving them a pleated appearance. These unique blooms provide an essential nectar source for late-season pollinators, particularly bumblebees and other strong-flying insects, which pry open the petals to reach the nectar. The narrow, lance-shaped green leaves grow along upright stems, forming a tidy, compact plant that thrives in moist, well-drained soils.

Ideal for wet meadows, riparian plantings, and areas that hold spring moisture before drying moderately in summer, Pleated Gentian pairs beautifully with other moisture-loving wildflowers. Its intense blue blooms make it a standout in both rural and urban gardens, bringing vibrancy and pollinator activity at a time when many other flowers have faded. While deer may sample the plant, they typically avoid it in favor of more palatable options.

How Easy Is This Plant to Grow?

Germination Difficulty: Experienced
Growing Difficulty: Intermediate
Speed of Growth: Very Slow
Age to First Bloom: 4-6

Plant Sizes & Blooming Window

Important Information - The "Plant Sizes" are provided as a general guideline for plant selection. The "Blooming Window" indicates the general period when the species is in bloom, not how long an individual plant will flower.

Plant growth and bloom times will vary depending on geographical location & individual site conditions. Please scroll down to see the specific information for this plant.

Edible & Medicinal Info Disclaimer

The Edible & Medicinal information on this site is for informational purposes only and should not be acted on without thorough research and professional guidance. We are not responsible for any adverse effects resulting from the use of or misidentification of plants.

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Plant Specifics

Seeds Per Pack

Seeds Per Package: 25

Light Conditions

  • Sun
  • Part Shade

Soil Conditions

  • Moist
  • Loam
  • Well Drained
  • Clay
  • Sandy
  • Seasonally Moist

Height

  • Under 12"

Width

  • Under 12"
  • 12" - 24"

Bloom Colour

  • Blue

Month of Bloom

  • August
  • Septemeber

Vigorousness

  • Very Slow
  • Slow

Deer Resistance

  • Moderate

Features

  • Butterflies
  • Bees
  • Urban Spaces
  • Rural Spaces
  • Medicinal Properties
  • Good in Containers

Chinook Exposure

  • Fully Exposed

Distribution Info

Native to western Canada, Pleated Gentian is found from BC, to MB, and  is widespread throughout the Rocky Mountains, Great Plains, and Pacific Northwest. It thrives in moist meadows, riverbanks, montane regions, and open woodlands in cool, damp environments.

Traditional Edible & Medicinal Info

Gentiana species have a long history of use as bitters in herbal medicine, and while Pleated Gentian is not as commonly used as its European relatives, it has been valued for its digestive-stimulating properties.