Marsh gentian

The bright blue, trumpet-shaped flowers of the marsh gentian contrast deeply with the pinks and purples of the wet heaths it inhabits. The New Forest holds a large population of this late-flowering plant.

Scientific name

Gentiana pneumonanthe

When to see

July to October

Species information

Statistics

Height: up to 30cm

Rare and localised.

About

The marsh gentian is a rare plant of acidic bogs and wet heathlands whose bright blue, trumpet-shaped flowers appear from July to October, contrasting with the pinks and purples of the heath. There are particularly strong populations of this flower in the New Forest, where a white variety has also occurred.

How to identify

The upright, unbranched stems of marsh gentian hold aloft the blue, trumpet-shaped flowers that are delicately striped with green. Narrow leaves are carried up the stem in pairs.