White avens
Geum canadense · Rosaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant white avens: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Blooming
- Spring to early summer (May-June)
- Adult size
- 30-60 cm tall
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (zone 3-8)
- Origin
- North America
- Soil type
- Fresh to moist soil, rich in organic matter
Care
Light Exposure
White avens prefer partial shade to partial sun. They also tolerate direct sunlight if the soil remains sufficiently moist. Avoid full sun exposure in hot regions.
Watering
Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during spring growth. During dry periods, water regularly without allowing water to stagnate. Organic mulch helps retain moisture.
Soil
Plant in rich, well-draining soil with added compost or peat. White avens appreciate neutral to slightly acidic pH. Heavy, compacted soil should be loosened before planting.
Fertilizing
A spring application of well-decomposed compost is generally sufficient. Avoid nitrogen-rich fertilizers that would promote foliage at the expense of flowering.
Pruning and Cleanup
Remove spent flowers to extend blooming. In late winter or early spring, cut back dead stems and remove old foliage. No structural pruning is necessary.
Diseases and Pests
Generally robust, white avens can be affected by powdery mildew in cases of excessive humidity and poor air circulation. Watch for common garden pests, but treatments are rarely needed.
Did you know?
White avens was once used in traditional Native American medicine for its astringent properties. Its Latin name "Geum" comes from the Greek word "geusis" meaning taste, as its roots possessed a clove-like scent that was appreciated by herbalists of old.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Apple treeMalus domestica
- Cherry treePrunus avium
- BlackthornPrunus spinosa
- Salad burnetPoterium sanguisorba
- Bird cherryPrunus padus
- BrambleRubus fruticosus
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.