Geum urbanum aka Wood Avens

Taxonomy ID: 15162

Geum urbanum, commonly known as wood avens, herb Bennet, colewort, and St. Benedict's herb (Latin herba benedicta), is a perennial plant in the rose family (Rosaceae). It thrives in shady areas such as woodland edges and near hedgerows in the temperate regions of Eurasia, Europe, and the Middle East. It has also been introduced in North America. This hairy perennial forms overwintering rosettes of leaves with rounded lobes, the largest being at the tip. In May until late autumn, it produces simple, yellow, strawberry-like flowers that are 5-20mm across. The flower stems nod before the flowers open. The plant bears spherical clusters of fruits that are burred with red hooks. Wood avens usually grows to a height of 20-60 cm and blooms between May and August. Its bright yellow, scented flowers have five petals and are pollinated by bees. The plant's fruits have burrs that aid in dispersal by getting caught in the fur of rabbits and other animals. The roots of wood avens contain eugenol, a compound also found in cloves, and are used as a spice in soups and for flavoring ale. While this plant has useful qualities, it should be noted that it might also be poisonous. To get rid of wood avens, specific methods are not mentioned in the provided descriptions.

Common names

Wood Avens, Blessed Herb, Herb Bennet

More information about Wood Avens

How difficult is it to take care of Wood Avens

Caring for Wood Avens is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.

What is the region of origin of Wood Avens

Wood Avens’s native range is Europe, including Britain, from Norway south and east to N. Africa, Siberia, Himalayas and W. Asia.

What are the water needs for Wood Avens

Wood Avens should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

What is the right soil for Wood Avens

Wood Avens loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

What is the sunlight requirement for Wood Avens

To ensure optimal growth, the Wood Avens prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Is Wood Avens toxic to humans/pets?

There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.

More info:
Wikipedia