White Avens Geum canadense

White Avens is a native pernnial groundcover in the rose family.  It is typically found in woodlands and thickets.  Mass plant it in a woodland garden or let use it as a lawn alternative in an area with low foot traffic as it does well when mowed.  Mow the plants once a week during flowering and once a month after to a height of 4" or higher.   While it can grow up to 4' tall it typically stays around 18" in height.  It is not a dense plant so it will not form a thick mat of vegetation.  It prefers the shade but will tolerate sunny areas as well.

The leaves remain attractive even in the winter and do well as a green background in containers.  It may need supplemental irrigation in dry summers. Seeds are distributed by animals or people by attaching to fur or clothing.  Collect seeds in June for propagation or allow them to self-sow.