Location specific values:
Array
(
    [lat] => 39.344400
    [lng] => -76.766800
    [elevation] => 156.9237
    [rainfall] => 1150.344
    [cold_temperature] => -4.7016
    [temperature] => 30.2989
    [user_eto] => 1022.05597168
)
Plant specific values:
Array
(
    [rain_min_irrigation] => 871
    [eto_corrected] => 814
    [eto_adjusted_rain_min (rain_min_irrigation / eto_corrected)] => 1.07002457
)
Orangefruit Horse-Gentian (Triosteum aurantiacum) | Easyscape Plant Profile

Orangefruit Horse-Gentian

(Triosteum aurantiacum)

Orangefruit Horse-Gentian (Triosteum aurantiacum)

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Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Climate Requirements for Milford Mill, Maryland

This Plant Your Site Plant Suitability for Your Location
Precipitation 21" - 78" 45" Aquatic Aquatic
High Temp. 64°F - 92°F 87°F Your summer temperatures are normal for this plant. Excellent
Low Temp. -8°F - 34°F 24°F Your winter temperatures are normal for this plant Excellent
This plant may not grow well at your location - your precipitation is too high.

Summary

Triosteum aurantiacum, commonly known as orangefruit horse-gentian, is a perennial herb native to rich woodlands and forest edges in the Northeastern and North Central USA and Southern Canada. It typically grows from 2 to 4 feet (0.6 to 1.2 m) in height and features lanceolate leaves with a slightly wrinkled texture. The plant produces small, tubular flowers that are usually yellow to orange, blooming in late spring to early summer. These flowers are not particularly showy but are followed by ornamental, orange to red berries in the fall. The berries are somewhat reminiscent of small tomatoes, hence the common name. Orangefruit horse-gentian is valued for its medicinal uses by Native Americans and its potential as a coffee substitute when the roots are roasted.

In the garden, Triosteum aurantiacum is appreciated for its ease of maintenance and the interest provided by its berries. It is suitable for naturalistic plantings, woodland gardens, and borders. It prefers partial shade to full sun and adapts well to a variety of soil conditions, provided they have medium drainage. While it is not commonly found in cultivation, it can be a unique addition to a native plant garden. It is generally pest-free but can be susceptible to rust and leaf spot diseases. It is not known for being invasive or having aggressive roots.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 2-4 feet
  • Width: 1-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Purple, Red
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Rich woodlands and forest edges

Other Names

Common Names:

Scientific Names: Triosteum aurantiacum , Triosteum perfoliatum var. aurantiacum

GBIF Accepted Name: Triosteum aurantiacum E.P.Bicknell