Fringed-gentian
Gentianopsis crinita
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Native to
CT, DE, GA, IA and 20 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Fringed gentian is a delicate annual wildflower with distinctive blue flowers that have deeply fringed petals. It blooms from summer through fall, reaching 1-2 feet tall with a compact, upright growth habit. This native plant requires consistent moisture and partial sun conditions to thrive.
In an HOA neighborhood
Fringed-gentian takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Annual nature means gaps in coverage some years
- Can appear weedy or sparse when not blooming
- Unpredictable self-seeding pattern looks unplanned
Wildlife value
The nectar-rich blue flowers attract bees and butterflies during the long blooming season from July through October. As a native annual, it provides important late-season nectar when many other flowers have finished blooming.
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.
Does Fringed-gentian fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.