Geum montanum
Geum montanum · Rosaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant geum montanum: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- May to July
- Adult size
- 30 to 50 cm tall
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (-15°C and below)
- Origin
- Central and southern European mountains
- Soil type
- Well-drained, stony, slightly alkaline
- Exposure
- Sun to partial shade
Care
Exposure
Mountain avens prefers a sunny to partially shaded location. It tolerates north-facing and mountain exposures well. In warm climates, light afternoon shade prevents excessive drying.
Soil
Plant it in well-drained soil, as it fears excess moisture and waterlogging. Adding gravel or stones improves drainage and replicates its natural mountain habitat. A slightly alkaline or neutral texture is ideal.
Watering
Water regularly during spring and summer growth periods, especially in the first few weeks after planting. Once established, the plant tolerates relative drought well thanks to its deep root system. Reduce watering in autumn.
Pruning and maintenance
Remove spent flowers to extend flowering and save the plant's energy. In late autumn, cut dry stems flush to the ground. No structural pruning is necessary; the plant naturally adopts a compact, bushy form.
Fertilization
A plant with modest needs that thrives in poor to moderately fertile soils. A light annual application of compost in late winter is quite sufficient. Avoid excess nitrogen, which would promote foliage at the expense of flowering.
Diseases and pests
Mountain avens is generally very robust. In overly wet soil, watch for powdery mildew and root rot. Good air circulation and optimal drainage prevent these problems. Pests are rare on this hardy species.
Did you know?
The French name 'benoîte' derives from 'bénite,' because monks once attributed blessed and protective virtues to this plant. In the mountains, its pale golden-yellow flowers appear late in the season, offering a burst of color when many other alpines are fading.
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.