Geum canadense

Jacq.

White avens

Rosaceae Edible: Roots 44,866 iNaturalist observations

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iNaturalist· cc-by-nc-sa

Summary

Geum canadense, the white avens, is a plant in the rose family, Rosaceae. It is widespread across much of Canada, the United States, and Mexico. It readily hybridizes with the introduced Geum urbanum. The hybrid is named Geum × catlingii J.-P. Bernard & R. Gauthier.

Description

Geum canadense is a hardy perennial reaching 0.8 m tall. It flowers from July to August and thrives in light, medium, or heavy soils with good drainage. This hermaphrodite species tolerates mildly acidic to basic pH levels and grows in semi-shade or full sun in moist conditions. Hardy to UK zone 3.

Edible Uses

The boiled roots can be used as a chocolate substitute. Roots gathered in spring before the plant comes into growth are also used as a flavouring and preservative in ale.

Traditional Uses

The boiled roots are used as substitute for chocolate.

This uses section is brief — help expand it

Medicinal Uses

None known

Distribution

It is a temperate plant.

Where It Grows

North America, USA,

Cultivation

Easily grown in any moderately good garden soil that is well-drained. Prefers a soil rich in organic matter. Plants are hardy to at least -15°c. Hybridizes freely with other members of this genus.

Propagation

Sow seed in spring or autumn in a cold frame. Once seedlings are large enough to handle, prick them out into individual pots and plant out during summer. Divide clumps in spring or autumn, ideally every 3–4 years to maintain plant vigour. Larger clumps can go directly into permanent positions, but smaller ones are best potted up and grown on in a cold frame until well rooted, then planted out in spring.