Geum rivale
water avens
A herbaceous perennial with bright green, lobed basal leaves. The flower stems and sepals are flushed with dark red, and the dusky pink or pale orange, drooping flowers appear from late spring to midsummer
Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Red | Orange Pink | Green | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Red | Orange Pink | Green | |
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Rosaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Geum are rhizomatous perennials, occasionally spreading by stolons, with a basal rosette of pinnately lobed leaves and saucer-shaped flowers in loose clusters
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Europe, Asia, America
How to grow
Cultivation
A moisture-loving perennial that will tolerate most soils, rich in organic matter, in sun or even a certain amount of shade. Divide every few years to avoid congestion
Propagation
Propagate by seed in pots in a cold frame in winter or propagate by division in spring or autumn
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
- Underplanting of roses and shrubs
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Cut back the old stems after flowering
Pests
May be susceptible to geum sawfly and leaf miners
Diseases
May be susceptible to Powdery mildews
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.