How much sun does Pleated Gentian need?

Pleated Gentian grows best in part sun conditions.

When does Pleated Gentian bloom?

Pleated Gentian blooms in July, August, and September.

Where is Pleated Gentian native?

Pleated Gentian (Gentiana affinis) is native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 11 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.

What pollinators does Pleated Gentian attract?

Pleated Gentian draws bees and butterflies.

Is Pleated Gentian HOA-friendly?

Pleated Gentian takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Pleated Gentian

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Gentiana affinis

Last reviewed: June 2026

Light

part sun

Water

medium

Size

4"–12" H × 2"–6" W

Bloom

Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AZ, CA, CO, ID and 11 more states

Pollinators

bees, butterflies

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Coast Range Central California Valley Central Basin and Range Mojave Basin and Range Chihuahuan Deserts

Pleated gentian is a compact native wildflower that produces stunning deep blue to purple trumpet-shaped blooms from July through September. This low-growing perennial forms neat clumps and thrives in partial sun with moderate moisture, making it an excellent choice for rock gardens or border plantings.

In an HOA neighborhood

Pleated Gentian takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

Very small size may appear sparse in formal landscapes
Unknown dormancy appearance could look untidy
May be perceived as too 'wild' for front yard applications

Wildlife value

The vibrant blue flowers attract native bees and butterflies during the late summer blooming period. This plant provides valuable nectar when many other native flowers are finishing their bloom cycles.

Common questions

How much sun does Pleated Gentian need?: Pleated Gentian grows best in part sun conditions.
When does Pleated Gentian bloom?: Pleated Gentian blooms in July, August, and September.
Where is Pleated Gentian native?: Pleated Gentian (Gentiana affinis) is native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 11 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Pleated Gentian attract?: Pleated Gentian draws bees and butterflies.
Is Pleated Gentian HOA-friendly?: Pleated Gentian takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

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 Pleated Gentian? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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