Gentiana 'LIPSTICK ASHIRO'

Gentian is one of the most beautiful perennials where the most sought after varieties bear blue flowers. Because their blue is true blue, bluer than the ocean, darker than the summer sky, almost like indigo. The family consists of more than 400 species which often hybridize among themselves. Ashiro is a beautiful Japanese series of compact varieties with rich colours bred by Dr.Hikage. British RHS encyclopaedia lists them as gentiana triflora which seems very unlikely due to their compact habit and shape of flowers. These gentians are represented in Europe by CNB New Plants from the Netherlands.

Lipstick Ashiro is a unique autumn gentian producing colour you would not expect from a plant whose name is usually taken for a synonym for a deep blue colour. This gentian, however, is rich purple pink. Narrowly trumpet-shaped flowers raise their heads towards the sun and open only in full sun, from midsummer until October. Elliptic leaves are rather light green which contrasts beautifully with dark blue flowers. The plant is very handsome being so compact and neat, almost ground-covering.

Gentian is a slow growing, mat-forming perennial requiring zero maintenance. Plant it in humus-rich, reliably moist but well-drained soil in full sun or only partial shade. Autumn flowering species require slightly acid soil. Hardy to about -29°C (USDA zone 5).

Last update 06-09-2018; 04-10-2018