About
Geum montanum, the alpine avens, is a rhizomatous perennial to 15 cm forming a compact clump of pinnate, dark-green leaves with large terminal leaflets. In spring and early summer, cup-shaped, deep golden-yellow flowers 3�4 cm wide are borne singly on short stems. A beautiful and reliable alpine avens for a sunny rock garden or raised bed.
About the genus
Geum, the avens, are rhizomatous perennials, occasionally spreading by stolons, with a basal rosette of pinnately lobed leaves and saucer-shaped flowers in loose clusters on upright or arching stems, mainly in spring and summer, in shades of yellow, orange, red and white.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeAlpine Rockery, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants, Rock garden, Gravel garden, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Wildflower meadow
Native toC & S Europe
Care notes
CultivationSuitable for the rock garden or front of borders. Avoid soil that is waterlogged
PruningDeadhead regularly
PropagationPropagate by seed or division in autumn or spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite, aphids and sawflies
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free