Geum

Geum chiloense, also called Chilean avens or Chiloe Island avens, is a clump-forming, semi-evergreen perennial. It has deeply lobed, hairy leaves and saucer-shaped scarlet flowers on upright stems from early to late summer. One description gives a height and width of about 60 cm (24 inches), while the size ranges give about 20 to 39 inches (50 to 100 cm) tall and wide. It takes 2 to 5 years to reach maturity.

Starting plants. The source gives no seed sowing or germination details for this species, so this page doesn’t say when to sow seed. The plant is propagated by division in spring or autumn.

Planting site. It grows best in moist but well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter, in sun or some shade. It suits cottage gardens, flower borders, patios and containers, and wildlife gardens.

Dividing. Divide the clumps every few years to keep them from getting crowded.

Deadheading and pruning. Deadhead to encourage more blooms, and cut back the old stems after flowering.

Leaf miners, aphids and geum sawfly larvae may attack this plant. It may also be susceptible to powdery mildew.