Yellow Avens
geum coccineum
Also known as: ["Avens","Geum chiloense"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant known for its vibrant yellow flowers and attractive foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Geum |
| Botanical Name: | Geum coccineum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden border, rock garden, or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to fast-draining; avoid heavy clay soils.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead flowers as they fade; cut back foliage annually in late autumn or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing dead or damaged growth and spent blooms.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade in hot climates, but may produce fewer blooms.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade; protect from intense midday sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues in humid conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; avoid harsh afternoon sun in arid regions; rotate pots for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
fertile, well-drained, loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not waterlogged; amend heavy soils with organic matter; test pH if blooms are poor.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); can tolerate light frosts but may struggle in extreme heat.
Protect from frost if below 20°F (-7°C); avoid placing near heat sources in winter; ensure good air circulation in summer.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly to avoid excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms; stop fertilizing when plant is dormant; apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes; division is the most reliable method for mature plants.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch stem cuttings with a clean cut.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is not in full bloom.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also be propagated in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for stem cuttings to improve success rates.
Timeline
Stem cuttings may root in 3–6 weeks; division can produce new blooms in the first season if done early enough.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterile tools to prevent disease; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity until roots form.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip spent flowers just above a leaf node; cut back old foliage to ground level in autumn or spring.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; cut back foliage in late autumn to tidy appearance and reduce disease risk.
Tools
Hand pruners, clean scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Remove dead or diseased stems; deadhead regularly; cut back foliage in autumn or spring; clean tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during flowering or extreme weather.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant from pot; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; division at repotting can rejuvenate older plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water well after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone; apply until water begins to drain from the bottom; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth; reduce frequency in winter to every 2–3 weeks; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and structure; mix in perlite or sand for better drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in prolonged cold; buds failing to open in temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf discoloration; prolonged cold can damage roots or lead to dieback.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter to insulate roots; move potted plants to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; flowering may be reduced; growth may become stunted.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in hot climates; increase watering frequency; use mulch to keep roots cool.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; dilute liquid fertilizers; avoid over-fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if used monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in late autumn or winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicGeum coccineum is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain known toxic substances that would harm felines if ingested or contacted.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicGeum coccineum is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic compounds in the plant that would pose a risk to canine health if ingested or touched.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicGeum coccineum is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. The plant does not produce known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Geum coccineum be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Geum coccineum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: Is Geum coccineum toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
