Wood Avens (Geum urbanum)

Wood Avens

Geum urbanum

Delicate yellow blooms brighten shaded woodlands, a low-growing wildflower. Common name: Wood Avens.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Dappled to full shade; tolerates partial morning sun in cool temperate climates, avoid hot afternoon direct sun
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Watering Keep soil evenly moist but well-drained; avoid waterlogging, especially during dormant winter months
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Temperature Hardy to -15°C; prefers cool temperate conditions, avoid prolonged heat above 28°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Basal rosette of pinnate leaves with toothed leaflets; stem leaves smaller, simpler.
  • Flower: Bright yellow, 5-petaled blooms on slender stems; followed by fuzzy, hooked seed heads.
  • Stem: Slender, hairy green stems with sparse attached leaves.
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist to support blooming

Fertilization

Apply diluted organic feed once monthly to support flower production. Use a balanced, low-nitrogen organic feed to promote blooms rather than foliage

Composted banana peel tea:Steep fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 with water for root drenching; avoid using uncomposted peels to prevent pest issues
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage extended flowering through early summer
  • Trim back faded foliage to ground level in late autumn to tidy clumps
  • Divide overcrowded clumps every 2–3 years in early spring to maintain plant health
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirms no toxicity to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects for humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Edible young leaves; traditional medicinal use for digestive and anti-inflammatory purposes