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Description
Geum Fragarioides, commonly known as Barren Strawberry or Appalachian Avens, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in the Appalachian Mountains, from Georgia to Maine. The plant is named Barren Strawberry because of its resemblance to the common strawberry plant, but it does not produce any fruit.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Geum |
Appearance
Geum Fragarioides has glossy, dark green leaves that are toothed and heart-shaped. The plant can grow up to 12 inches tall and has small yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. The flowers have five petals and are about 1 inch in diameter. After the flowers die, the plant produces small, brown, burr-like fruits that contain seeds.
Care Guide
Geum Fragarioides is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions.
- Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil and should be watered regularly, but not over-watered.
- Fertilization: Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth.
- Soil: The plant can grow in a variety of soil types, but prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Geum Fragarioides can grow in full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Geum Fragarioides is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if over-watered or planted in poorly-drained soil. It is also important to keep an eye out for slugs and snails, which can damage the leaves.
Habitat
Geum Fragarioides is native to North America and is commonly found in the Appalachian Mountains, from Georgia to Maine. The plant grows in wooded areas, meadows, and along streams and riverbanks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Geum Fragarioides a good plant for beginner gardeners?
A: Yes, Geum Fragarioides is a great choice for beginner gardeners because it is low-maintenance and easy to grow.
Q: Can Geum Fragarioides be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Geum Fragarioides can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should Geum Fragarioides be fertilized?
A: Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth.
Q: When should Geum Fragarioides be pruned?
A: Geum Fragarioides does not require regular pruning, but deadheading spent flowers can help promote new growth.
Related Plants
- Geum Rivale
- Geum Chiloense
- Geum Triflorum
- Geum Coccineum
References
- “Geum Fragarioides.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c124.
- “Geum Fragarioides.” Plants of the World Online, www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:73288-2.
- “Geum Fragarioides.” USDA, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=GEFR.
