Geum urbanum var. strictum

L.; J.D.Hook

Avens, Herb Bennet

Rosaceae Edible: Roots 64,332 iNaturalist observations

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Summary

Geum urbanum, also known as wood avens, herb Bennet, colewort, clove root and St. Benedict's herb (Latin: herba benedicta), is a perennial plant in the rose family (Rosaceae), which grows in shady places (such as woodland edges and near hedgerows) in the temperate regions of Eurasia and North America.

Description

A temperate herbaceous plant in the rose family (Rosaceae), one of approximately 40 Geum species, with edible roots.

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Edible Uses

The roots are eaten.

Medicinal Uses

The leaves can be cooked like spinach. The roots contain the compound eugenol (which is also present in cloves), and are used as a spice in soups and also for flavouring ale. For example, the Augsburg Ale is said to owe its peculiar flavour to the addition of a small bag of avens inside each cask. The fresh root imparts a pleasant clove-like flavour to the liquor, preserves it from turning sour, and adds to its wholesome properties. Herbalists use wood avens to treat various diseases, but there is no evidence that it makes any difference. A cordial against the plague was made by boiling the roots in wine. English botanist John Gerard recommended a "decoction made in wine against stomach ills and bites of venomous beasts". Because of its digestive tonic properties, chewing of the root was also recommended for foul breath.

Distribution

It is a temperate plant.

Where It Grows

Australia, Britain, Europe, New Zealand, Tasmania,

Notes

There are about 40 Geum species.

References (4)

Bodkin, F., 1991, Encyclopedia Botanica. Cornstalk publishing, p 496
Curtis, W.M., 1956, The Students Flora of Tasmania Vol 1 p 169
Elliot, W.R., & Jones, D.L., 1992, Encyclopedia of Australian Plants suitable for cultivation. Vol 4. Lothian. p 360
Mabey, R., 1973, Food for Free. A Guide to the edible wild plants of Britain, Collins. p 69