Closed Gentian
Gentiana andrewsii
Last reviewed: July 2026
Gentiana andrewsii (Closed Gentian) is a native wildflower found across the Great Lakes region and Northeast, blooming August through October with distinctive bottle-shaped deep blue flowers that attract specialized bees.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Closed Gentian as toxic to livestock.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Aug, Sep, Oct
Native to
CO, CT, IA, IL and 18 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Deer
Resistant (per Prairie Moon Nursery)
Closed gentian produces distinctive deep blue bottle-shaped flowers that never fully open, creating an unusual and eye-catching display in late summer and fall. This native perennial thrives in partial shade with consistent moisture and forms neat clumps that work well in both formal and naturalistic garden settings.
Growing Closed Gentian
Grow Closed Gentian in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 6 to 12 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Closed Gentian is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, mid zone.
- May appear bare in early spring before emergence
Wildlife value
The unique closed flowers are specifically adapted for pollination by bumblebees, which are strong enough to force their way inside. This plant provides crucial late-season nectar when few other native flowers are blooming.
Common questions
- Why are the flowers called 'closed' gentians?
- The flowers of Gentiana andrewsii remain tightly closed or only partially open, creating a distinctive bottle-like shape that gives the plant its common name.
- Where does Closed Gentian naturally grow?
- Closed Gentian is native to much of the northern United States, from the Great Plains eastward through the Great Lakes region to New England and the Mid-Atlantic states.
- When does Closed Gentian bloom?
- Closed Gentian blooms from August through October, providing late-season nectar when many other wildflowers have finished blooming.
- What pollinates Closed Gentian?
- Bumblebees are the primary pollinators of Closed Gentian, as they are strong enough to force their way into the closed flowers. Some butterflies also visit the flowers.
- Is Closed Gentian toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Closed Gentian as toxic to livestock.
- Is Closed Gentian HOA-friendly?
- Closed Gentian is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Closed Gentian? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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