Scarlet Avens
Taxonomy
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Clade: Angiosperms
- Order: Rosales
- Family: Rosaceae
- Genus: Geum
- Species: G. coccineum
Common Names by Region
- United States: Scarlet Avens, Red Geum
- United Kingdom: Scarlet Avens
- Europe: Red Avens, Balkan Geum
- Eastern Europe: Balkan Scarlet
Description
- Growth Habit: Herbaceous perennial plant with a clump-forming nature.
- Size: Typically grows to a height of 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 cm) and spreads about 12 inches (30 cm).
- Leaves: Basal leaves are pinnate with serrated edges, dark green, forming a rosette.
- Flowers: Bright, scarlet-red flowers with five slightly overlapping petals, blooming in late spring to early summer. The flowers are held on wiry stems above the foliage, giving a delicate appearance.
- Stems: Thin, wiry, and slightly hairy, usually rising up from the rosette.
Known Range
- Native Range: Southeastern Europe, specifically in regions like the Balkans.
- Cultivated Range: Commonly grown in temperate regions across North America, Europe, and parts of Asia.
Care Requirements
- Light: Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Watering: Needs moderate watering; soil should remain moist but not waterlogged.
- Soil: Thrives in well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0).
- Humidity: Can tolerate a range of humidity levels but prefers environments that are not overly humid.
- Temperature: Hardy in USDA zones 4-7; can withstand cold winters but may need protection in extremely hot climates.
- Propagation: Propagated by division in spring or by seeds sown in early spring.
- Common Pests/Diseases: May face issues such as aphids, leaf spots, or powdery mildew, especially in poor air circulation conditions.
Additional Notes
- Special Features: Attracts pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, and is deer-resistant.
- Maintenance Level: Low to moderate; requires occasional deadheading to promote extended blooming and division every few years to maintain vigor.
Many of the flowering plants featured on our website are available through Nature Hills Nursery. Ordering them through this link will support the Cernunnos Foundation and your garden!
paid advertisement
Post Views: 11
