How to Grow and Care for Horse-gentian

Himalayan horse-gentian is a yak-proof plant, and that’s impressive in the Himalayas where food supplies are scarce. The plant stands out when its bright red berries are produced in the fall. The fruits form in clusters that are impossible to miss.

Orangefruit horse-gentian (Triosteum aurantiacum) gets its common name from its small orange fruits, whose seeds resemble coffee beans. This member of the honeysuckle family grows wild across central and eastern North America, where its late-spring to early-summer blossoms feed several species of long-tongued bees.

Feverwort (Triosteum perfoliatum) is distinct from other closely related species because its central leaf blades are joined together. Several species of bees are attracted to this plant's nectar, and it is sometimes eaten by deer.

White feverwort (Triosteum pinnatifidum) is grown ornamentally for its white flowers and fruits and its attractive finger-like leaves. Both the leaves and berries help to differentiate this plant from its close neighbor Triosteum himalayanum, which produces red berries. This plant attracts birds, bees, and butterflies but is deer-resistant.