Growing Geum (Avens): Bright Perennials for Sunny Borders

Growing Geum

Pronunciation: gee'-um

Geum, or avens, is a strawberry relative prized for its bright, cup-shaped flowers on wiry stems in late spring. The wrinkled, evergreen rosettes form attractive ground cover. Smaller varieties suit rock gardens; larger ones anchor sunny borders.

Light, Water, and Soil

Full sun maximizes bloom; in hot, humid climates, afternoon shade is welcome. Geum needs consistent moisture—water deeply after planting and weekly thereafter if rainfall is under 1 inch. Average, well-drained soil is best; avoid winter wet. Do not fertilize at planting or during the first season. Established plants need only a light spring application of balanced granular fertilizer.

Maintenance and Division

Deadhead spent stems promptly to prolong flowering. Divide in spring or fall to rejuvenate overgrown clumps. Geum is generally easy but may be short-lived where soil or climate conditions aren’t met.