Wild About Flowers
Geum rivale - Purple Avens
Geum rivale - Purple Avens
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Purple Avens is a delicate, moisture-loving perennial with nodding, bell-shaped flowers in soft shades of purple and dusky pink. Blooming from late spring to early summer, its hairy, reddish stems and deeply lobed green leaves add texture to shaded gardens and wetland edges. The nectar-rich flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hoverflies, while Goldfinches and other seed-eating birds may feed on the seeds. As the flowers fade, they develop into distinctive, feathery seed heads that persist into summer, followed by a flush of bright maroon fall foliage.
Geum rivale is a low-maintenance wildflower well suited to shady, moist gardens, woodland edges, and wetland or rain gardens. Its fibrous root system helps stabilize wet soils, while the aromatic roots and slightly hairy foliage make it less palatable to herbivores. Occasional browsing may occur, but the plant generally recovers well.
Bloom Times & Plant Sizes
Bloom Times & Plant Sizes
Important Information - The "Bloom Period" is an indicator of the time period within which the wildflowers will bloom and does not describe the time period that a single plant will bloom. The "Sizes" listed are intended to be a general guideline to consult during plant selection. - Plant growth and bloom times will vary depending on geographical location & individual site conditions.
Edible & Medicinal Info Disclaimer
Edible & Medicinal Info Disclaimer
The Edible & Medicinal information on this site is for informational purposes only and should not be acted on without thorough research and professional guidance. We are not responsible for any adverse effects resulting from the use of or misidentification of plants.
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Plant Specifics
Seeds Per Pack
Seeds Per Package: 15
Light Conditions
- Part Shade
- Sun
Soil Conditions
- Moist
- Loam
- Well Drained
- Sandy
- Clay
- Wet
Height
- 12" - 24"
- 24" - 36"
Width
- 12" - 24"
- 24" - 36"
Bloom Colour
- Purple
- Burgundy
Month of Bloom
- June
- July
Vigorousness
- Fast
Deer Resistance
- Moderate
Features
- Birds
- Butterflies
- Bees
- Attractive Seed Heads
- Fall Color
- Urban Spaces
- Rural Spaces
- Medicinal Properties
- Edible Parts
- Good in Containers
Chinook Exposure
- Moderate
Distribution Info
Geum rivale is native from BC to NL in Canada and is found across the northern and western US. It thrives in shaded or wet gardens, along creeks and streambanks, in bogs, wet meadows, and moist woodlands.
Traditional Edible & Medicinal Info
Geum rivale roots have a clove-like aroma and were traditionally used to flavor teas and broths. Medicinally, root infusions were taken for sore throats, wounds, and digestive issues, while crushed roots were applied to cuts, sores, and skin irritations. It was also used to ease stomach discomfort and diarrhea, and though not toxic, excessive consumption may cause digestive upset.