perennialN. America Native

Water Avens

Geum rivale 'Roseum'

The Story

Plant Bio

Geum roseum, commonly known as the pink avens, is a perennial herb valued for its attractive flowers and adaptability to various garden settings.

Distinctive for its soft pink flowers that bloom in late spring and attractive, deeply lobed foliage.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesGeum roseum offers vibrant pink blooms that add color and charm to borders and woodland gardens.
Practical UsesIts drought tolerance makes it suitable for low-water landscapes.
Ecological BenefitsProvides nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies.
SpeciesGeum rivaleWater Avens

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

15"

Width

18"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe, Asia, and North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Late spring – Early summer

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In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
  2. Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist during growing season.
  3. Prune after flowering to encourage bushier growth.
  4. Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or fall.
  5. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  6. Transplant in early spring or fall for optimal establishment.

Pro Tip

Plant in well-draining soil and partial shade for vibrant blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
  • Deadhead spent flowers to promote reblooming
  • Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Don't fertilize late in the season
  • Refrain from heavy pruning in late fall

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Delicate floral borderShade garden accentWildflower meadow edge

Companion Plants

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Water Avens questions

What zones can Water Avens grow in?

Water Avens is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Water Avens deer resistant?

Yes — Water Avens is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Water Avens bloom?

Water Avens typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Water Avens need full sun?

Water Avens does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Keep exploring

Grow Water Avens with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.