Plant care & info

Family: Rosaceae

Genus: Geum

Common Name: Avens

This genus of about 50 herbaceous perennials is very wide spread. It hails from temperate regions of Europe, Asia, North and South America, South Africa, and New Zealand. There are about 6 species native to Oregon, but they can become aggressive spreaders in the garden..

Geum prefers sunny sites and well drained soil, but they will grow in just about any condition as long as it is not waterlogged. Generally drought tolerant and frost hardy. Propagate from seed or by division in early spring.

Geum begin to flower less well after a few years and will become free-flowering again only if they are lifted and divided. This is a good time to cut back and discard old woody growth. Division should be done early spring. They can be grown from seed but tend to hybridize readily. Blooming will be extended if flowers are deadheaded.

Downy mildew, fungal leaf spot, powdery mildew, spider mites, and root weevils.

Bloom shape ranges from fluffy, upward facing doubles to nodding singles. These showy flowers also attract bees and butterflies. For the longest lasting cut flowers, pick when blooms are half open.

The foliage ranges from deciduous to evergreen, depending on species and conditions. Leaves are deeply lobed with toothed or scalloped edges, forming a dense mound.

An excellent addition to rock gardens, containers or as a border. Geum combines well with Geranium, Salvia nemerosa, ornamental grasses and Achillea (yarrow). Geum is a low allergen plant and a tincture of Avens is an ingredient in some herbal medicines as a mild sedative. The hybrids below have been bred for color, disease resistance, and long bloom.