Contents
Description
Geum Vernum, commonly referred to as Spring Avens, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to Europe and can be found growing in meadows, pastures, and open woodlands. The plant produces basal rosettes of leaves and erect stems that bear solitary flowers. The flowers are bright yellow and have five petals, each with a slight notch at the tip. The plant blooms in early spring and is a popular choice for rock gardens and borders.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Geum |
Appearance
Geum Vernum grows up to 25 cm tall and has basal leaves that are dark green, hairy, and palmately lobed. The leaves are divided into three leaflets that are sharply toothed. The stems are erect and bear bright yellow flowers. Each flower has five petals that are slightly notched at the tip. The flowers have a diameter of 2-3 cm and are borne singly on long stalks that rise above the foliage. The plant blooms in early spring and the flowers last for several weeks.
Care Guide
Geum Vernum is an easy plant to grow and care for. It prefers a well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil moist. Fertilizer can be applied in early spring to encourage growth and flowering. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a range of hardiness zones from 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Geum Vernum is generally not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, it may be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, it is important to keep the plant clean and well-ventilated. Aphids and slugs may also attack the plant, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap and slug pellets.
Habitat
Geum Vernum is native to Europe and can be found growing in meadows, pastures, and open woodlands. It prefers well-drained soils and can grow in a range of hardiness zones from 3 to 8. The plant is often grown in rock gardens and borders because of its early spring blooming and attractive yellow flowers.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Geum Vernum a perennial plant?
A: Yes, Geum Vernum is a herbaceous perennial plant.
Q: What is the best time to plant Geum Vernum?
A: The best time to plant Geum Vernum is in early spring or fall.
Q: Can Geum Vernum tolerate full sun?
A: Yes, Geum Vernum prefers full sun to partial shade.
Q: How tall does Geum Vernum grow?
A: Geum Vernum grows up to 25 cm tall.
Related Plants
- Geum coccineum (Scarlet Avens)
- Geum rivale (Water Avens)
- Geum triflorum (Prairie Smoke)
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2004). Manual of woody landscape plants: Their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation and uses. Stipes Publishing L.L.C.
- Horticulture Week. (2021). Geum Vernum. Retrieved from https://www.hortweek.com/geum-vernun/landscape/article/1682770
- RHS. (2021). Geum Vernum. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/7023/i-geum-vernum-i/details
