Geum Rivale

Description

Geum Rivale, also known as Water Avens, is a flowering plant species that belongs to the Rosaceae family. This plant is native to Europe and Asia and is commonly found in moist habitats such as marshes, riverbanks, and meadows. Geum Rivale is a herbaceous perennial plant that grows up to 60 cm tall, with a clump-forming habit. The flowers are usually red, but can also be pink or yellow, and bloom from May to July.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Geum Rivale has a beautiful appearance that makes it a popular choice in gardens. The plant has a basal rosette of lobed leaves that are hairy and toothed. The stem is slender and hairy, with a few leaves that are alternate and smaller at the top. The flowers are usually red, but can also be pink or yellow, and have five petals. The fruit is a dry achene that contains one seed.

Care Guide

Geum Rivale is an easy-to-care-for plant that thrives in moist soil and partial shade. Here is a detailed care guide:

• Water: This plant needs regular watering to keep the soil moist. Water it deeply once a week, or more often during hot, dry weather.
• Fertilization: Geum Rivale does not require fertilizer, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring to encourage growth.
• Soil: This plant prefers moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: Geum Rivale prefers partial shade, but can also tolerate full sun as long as the soil stays moist.
• Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Geum Rivale is generally a healthy plant that is not prone to many pests or diseases. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:

• Slugs and snails: These pests can eat the leaves and flowers of Geum Rivale. Use slug bait or copper tape around the plant to keep them away.
• Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil. Use well-draining soil and avoid watering too frequently.
• Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. Use a fungicide to treat it.

Habitat

Geum Rivale is native to Europe and Asia, and can be found in moist habitats such as marshes, riverbanks, and meadows. It prefers damp soil that is rich in organic matter and partial shade.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Geum Rivale a good plant for beginners?

A: Yes, Geum Rivale is an easy-to-care-for plant that is perfect for beginners.

Q: Can Geum Rivale grow in full sun?

A: Yes, Geum Rivale can grow in full sun as long as the soil stays moist.

Q: How often should I water Geum Rivale?

A: Water Geum Rivale deeply once a week, or more often during hot, dry weather.

Q: What is the blooming period for Geum Rivale?

A: Geum Rivale blooms from May to July.

Related Plants

• Geum chiloense
• Geum coccineum
• Geum macrophyllum
• Geum montanum

References

• “Geum rivale.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 20 July 2021. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281385&isprofile=1&basic=geum%20rivale
• “Geum rivale.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 20 July 2021. www.rhs.org.uk/plants/13954/geum-rivale/details
• “Geum rivale – Water Avens.” Plantlife. Accessed 20 July 2021. www.plantlife.org.uk/uk/discover-wild-plants-nature/plant-fungi-species/water-avens