Contents
Description
Geum Urbanum, commonly known as wood avens, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the rose family (Rosaceae). It is native to Europe and Western Asia and can grow up to a height of 30-60cm. It has a slightly aromatic smell and its leaves and roots are used in traditional medicine due to their antiseptic and astringent properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Geum |
Appearance
Wood avens has alternate, lobed, and toothed leaves that are hairy on both sides. The leaves are dark green in color and can grow up to 10cm long. The plant produces small, five-petaled, yellow flowers that bloom from May to September. The flowers are followed by burr-like fruits that cling to animal fur or clothing for dispersal.
Care Guide
Water: Wood avens prefers moist soil, so it should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells.Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization. However, a light application of a balanced fertilizer can be beneficial in the spring.Soil: Wood avens prefers well-draining, loamy soil. It can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil.Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun.Hardiness Zones: Wood avens is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Wood avens is generally not affected by many pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to rust, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. It can also be attacked by slugs and snails.
Habitat
Wood avens can be found in woodlands, meadows, and hedgerows. It prefers moist, shady areas and can grow in a variety of soils.
Question and Answer
Q: Can wood avens be used in cooking?
A: Yes, the leaves of wood avens can be used as a substitute for cloves in cooking.Q: Is wood avens easy to grow?
A: Yes, wood avens is relatively easy to grow and requires minimal care.Q: Can wood avens be grown in containers?
A: Yes, wood avens can be grown in containers as long as they have good drainage.Q: Can wood avens be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, wood avens can be propagated from cuttings taken in the summer.
Related Plants
- Geum chiloense
- Geum rivale
- Geum triflorum
- Geum canadense
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Geum urbanum. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277206&isprofile=0&
- RHS. (n.d.). Geum urbanum. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/2911/Geum-urbanum/Details
- University of Wisconsin-Madison. (n.d.). Geum urbanum. Retrieved from https://wimastergardener.org/article/wood-avens-geum-urbanum/
