Pleated Gentian
Gentiana affinis
Last reviewed: August 2026
Pleated Gentian (Gentiana affinis) is a perennial forb native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 11 more states. It blooms in July, August, and September. The flowers draw bees and butterflies.
Toxicity unknown
Pleated Gentian (Gentiana affinis) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
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
Before you buy
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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.
Growing Pleated Gentian
Grow Pleated Gentian in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 4 to 12 inches tall and spread 2 to 6 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
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 vouchered herbarium specimen records 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 vouchered herbarium specimen records 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.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz