Botanical name:

Gentianella montana

Common name(s): 

About:

One of the more common gentians that can be found in high-rainfall regions near the South Island's main divide is quite notable. They are well-known to form a distinct rosette of leathery olive-green leaves that are quite striking in their appearance. During the summer months, stems that reach heights of 10 to 40 cm bear attractive heads of approximately 10 delicate white flowers, adding beauty to the landscape. This plant prefers a deep, moist, yet well-drained soil, which ensures its health and vitality.

Natural habitat: 

Montane to subalpine areas with high-rainfall.

Growing environment:

Frost, Shade, Wind & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s South Island about the main divide.

Height: 40cm

Flowering:  

December – April with a white coloured flower/s 

Fruiting:

March - May

Uses: 

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food & Riparian plantings

How to grow:

Difficult. Should not be removed from the wild. When in flower they are charming and beautiful but are really plants for the specialist alpine grower, requiring a deep moist but well-drained soil. Propagation usually by seed.

** Seed germinates without pre treatment. 4 weeks cold stratification will help speed this up though