Largeleaf Avens
Geum macrophyllum
- Native to:
- Aleutian Is., Canada, Japan, Kuril Is., Labrador, Prince Edward I., Russia, United States
iNaturalist: © littlelegofan (iNaturalist #110618364)
Taxonomy
- Division:
- Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
- Family:
- Rosaceae
- Genus:
- Geum
- Species:
- Geum macrophyllum
- USDA Symbol:
- GEMA4
Growth Characteristics
- Life Cycle:
- Perennial
- Growth Habit:
- Forb/herb
- Height:
- 100 cm
- Light Requirements:
- Shade
- Drought Tolerance:
- Low
- Bloom Months:
- may,jun,jul,aug
- Bloom Colors:
- yellow
Wildlife Benefits
- Bees:
- ★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)
- Butterflies & Moths:
- ★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)
- Caterpillars:
- ★☆☆☆☆ Recorded caterpillar host plant (HOSTS Database)
Host Plant for Caterpillars
Dark marbled carpet (Dysstroma citrata), Mesothea incertata
Garden & Ecology Notes
- Wildlife Value:
- bees, butterflies
- Deer Resistant:
- Yes
Soil Requirements
- Soil Type:
- rich, well-drained loamy soil
- pH:
- 5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Drainage:
- tolerates poor drainage
- Moisture:
- consistently moist
- Notes:
- prefers habitats like meadows and stream banks
Propagation & Germination
- Stratification:
- Cold/moist stratification required — 30–90 days
- Germination Time:
- 14–42 days
- Notes:
- Seeds require light for germination; surface sow and provide cold stratification.
The above propagation data sourced from Claude AI
Pre-treatment: Seed subjected to 60 days of cool, moist stratification resulted in the highest germination rate
Establishment: Germination rate and time can vary significantly depending on the stratification period. Seeds collected in early fall or July when the inflorescences turn brown. Stored in paper bags in a well-ventilated area or at room temperature until cleaned.
Source: npn.rngr.net
ORGHPS Germination Guide: Sow @ 20C. Germinates within 3 months.