Geum plants are hardy perennials that range from 15 to 90 cm (6 to 36 inches) in height.
They bloom in the summer, when they carry circular red, white, purple or yellow flowers.
Geum pentapetalum by kabacchi.
Some of the common latin name of Geum species include Geum triflorum, Geum chiloense, Geum borisii and Geum aleppicum.
Geum triflorum - Prairie Smoke by gmayfield10.
Commonly grown species in the garden include Mountain Avens; Wood Avens; White, Yellow, and Purple Avens; and Alpine Avens.
Geum urbanum (Wood avens / Herb Bennet / Colewort / St. Benedict's Herb ), photograph by Andreas Rockstein; CC.
Geum reptans (Creeping Avens), picture by xulescu_g; CC.
Geum triflorum (Prairie Smoke / Three-flowered Avens / Old Man's Whiskers), picture by Patrick Alexander; CC.
Common Names: Avens, Geum, Prairie Smoke, Herb Bennet.
Life Cycle: Hardy perennial.
Height: 6 to 36 inches (15 to 90 cm).
Family: Rosaceae.
Native: Worldwide.
If growing Avens and other Geum plant species from seed, then sow outdoors at either the start of spring or in autumn;. Lightly cover the Geum seeds once sown.
Avens likes to grow in sunny areas of the garden that has good drainage. They can tolerate partial shade in hot climates.
Ideally the soil that the plant grows in will be rich, and slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5 to 7).
If first growing indoors, then sow Geum seeds about 10 weeks in advance.
It should take three to four weeks for Avens to germinate at 18 to 21 degrees centigrade (64 to 68°F).
Once ready, transplant plants into the garden at the start of spring or autumn. Ideally use a spacing of 30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 inches).
Geum plants, such as Purple and Mountain Avens, are easy to grow and look after. It is a good idea to remove dead flowers to prolong blooming and to help keep them tidy.
Supply a mulch in winter. When the plants begin to look tired (after about four years) divide them to maintain vigor.
If you require more plants then propagate by division in the autumn.
I hope that you enjoyed this guide on how to grow Geum plants. You may also enjoy the following Rosaceae (rose family) growing guides: How to Grow Rugosa Rose, Polyantha Roses, Waldsteinia, and Aruncus dioicus plants.