Common Names
Avens, Large-leaved Avens

Botanical Name
Geum macrophyllum

Plant Family
Rosaceae (Rose Family)

Native Range
Western North America, south to Mexico.

Life Cycle
Perennial

Hardiness Zone
3-9

Habit
Grows to about 3ft tall in bloom. Delicate yellow flowers give way to decorative spiky reddish fruits.

Sun/Soil
Woodland plant of the PNW. Prefers moist soil and partial shade.

Germination/Sowing
Seeds can be direct sown in fall or spring, or started in flats indoors in spring.

Growing/Care
Plants are herbaceous and can be cut back in the winter.

Harvesting
The aerial parts of Avens can be harvest during the summer bloom period, and the roots in the fall or winter after the second year of growth.

Culinary Uses
None known.

Medicinal Uses
All plant parts, especially the leaves, are astringent and are traditionally used for sore throats, toothaches, excess stomach acid, and topically for wounds.

Themes
Native Plant Garden, Woodland Garden, Container Garden, Apothecary Garden, Low Maintenance, Deer Resistant.