Lady Stratheden Avens Geum 'Lady Stratheden' (d)
ABOUT
The Avens 'Lady Stratheden' is a visually delightful perennial plant that boasts a sumptuous display of semi-double flowers. These flowers are a vibrant yellow in color, exuding a sense of warmth and cheerfulness in any garden setting. The petals are numerous and well-formed, sitting atop long stems that gently sway in the breeze, giving the plant a lively and engaging appearance. The foliage of Avens 'Lady Stratheden' is equally attractive, with deep green, lobed leaves that form a dense and lush basal clump. The texture of the leaves is somewhat hairy, which contributes to its classic and rustic aesthetic, inviting to the touch. The arrangement of the leaves is both dense and orderly, creating a visually appealing base from which the bright yellow flowers emerge. During its blooming period, the plant becomes a focal point due to the daisy-like flowers. The centers of the flowers are typically slightly raised with a cluster of stamens that add to the plant's ornamental appeal. The contrast between the vivid yellow petals and the deeper green foliage creates a picturesque and striking visual. The overall presentation of the Avens 'Lady Stratheden' is one of structured yet natural beauty, capable of infusing life and vibrancy into garden borders, rock gardens or as an accent in cottage garden settings. Whether planted alone or in groups, its sunny blossoms are sure to draw attention and be a source of joy throughout its flowering season.
About this plant
- Names
Family
Rosaceae
Synonyms
Avens, Lady Stratheden Avens, Double Flowering Avens
Common names
Geum 'Lady Stratheden'
- Toxicity
To humans
The plant commonly known as avens (Geum species) is not known for being toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from ingesting any part of the avens plant, and it does not have a reputation for being hazardous. However, as with any plant, individuals may have personal allergic reactions or sensitivities, so it is generally advisable to avoid ingesting plants that are not commonly recognized as food.
To pets
Similar to its effects on humans, avens is not known to be toxic to pets. There are no specific symptoms of poisoning associated with the ingestion of this plant by pets, such as dogs and cats. Nonetheless, pets may also have individual allergies or sensitivities, so it is always a good idea to keep an eye on your pet and consult with a vet if there are any signs of distress after ingesting any plant material.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
2 feet (0.6 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
- General Benefits
- Attracts Pollinators - Geum 'Lady Stratheden' is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects to the garden, promoting pollination.
- Easy Care - This plant is relatively low-maintenance, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Drought Tolerance - Once established, it can tolerate periods of dryness, making it suitable for xeriscaping or water-efficient gardens.
- Long Blooming - With an extended blooming period from late spring through summer, it adds long-lasting color to garden beds and borders.
- Cottage Garden Appeal - Its bright yellow flowers and herbaceous foliage add charm to cottage-style gardens.
- Border Planting - The clumping nature of Geum 'Lady Stratheden' makes it an excellent choice for border plantings, adding structure and color.
- Cut Flowers - The flowers are suitable for cutting and can be used to create vibrant, fresh bouquets.
- Hardiness - The plant is winter hardy in a range of climates, making it a reliable perennial for many garden zones.
- Deer Resistant - Geum 'Lady Stratheden' is less palatable to deer, reducing the risk of damage in gardens prone to deer visits.
- Medical Properties
This plant is not used for medical purposes.
- Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
- Other Uses
- As a natural clothing dye: The petals of the Avens can be used to create a range of yellow to orange dyes suitable for fabrics.
- In floral photography: Known for its vibrant yellow flowers, Avens is an ideal subject for close-up photography to showcase natural beauty.
- As an educational tool: Avens can be used in schools and educational programs to demonstrate the life cycle of perennial plants.
- In companion planting: Avens can be paired with other garden plants to create beneficial interactions and enhance overall biodiversity.
- As a natural insect repellent: Growing Avens may help deter certain insects due to its specific scent or properties of its foliage.
- In potpourri: The dried flowers of Avens can be added to potpourri mixes to contribute color and a subtle fragrance to the mixture.
- As a garden border: The compact growth pattern of Avens makes it suitable for use as edging along garden paths or borders.
- In crafting: The flowers of Avens can be used in crafting, such as pressed flower projects or incorporated into homemade paper for a decorative touch.
- For culinary decoration: Although not a common kitchen ingredient, Avens' flowers can be used to garnish salads or desserts for a splash of color.
- As a natural confetti: Dried petals of Avens can serve as a biodegradable alternative to traditional confetti at outdoor events.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
The Avens is not used in Feng Shui practice.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Avens is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Hardiness: Geum 'Lady Stratheden', commonly known as avens, can flourish in a variety of conditions, symbolizing resilience and the ability to thrive despite challenges.
- Longevity: This perennial plant returns year after year, symbolizing endurance and everlasting affection.
- Creativity: The bright yellow flowers of the avens represent creativity and the bright ideas that bloom from a spirited mind.
- Protection: In herbal lore, some species of Geum were used to ward off evil, suggestive of safeguarding and defense.
- Water
The Avens (Geum 'Lady Stratheden') prefers consistently moist soil, so water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. On average, this may be about once a week, but frequency should be adjusted based on temperature and climate conditions. During the growing season in spring and summer, these plants may need water more frequently, especially if they are in a sunnier spot or if the weather is particularly hot and dry. It is important to avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot. A good approach is to provide the Avens with about one gallon of water per plant every week, making sure it is watered deeply to encourage a strong root system.
- Light
Avens (Geum 'Lady Stratheden') thrives best in full sun to partial shade. This means ideally, the plant should receive at least 4 hours of direct sunlight daily. However, it can also perform well with light dappled shade, especially in regions with very intense afternoon sun. The best spot for an Avens plant is one where it can soak up the morning sun while being protected from the harsher light and heat of the late afternoon.
- Temperature
Avens (Geum 'Lady Stratheden') is hardy in a range of temperatures and can typically tolerate winter cold down to about 0 degrees Fahrenheit. The maximum temperature it can withstand is less clear-cut, as Avens plants can generally handle summer heat if they are not in direct sun during the hottest part of the day. Ideally, the temperature range for these plants is between 50 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth.
- Pruning
Pruning Avens (Geum 'Lady Stratheden') is primarily done to remove spent flowers and encourage additional blooming. Deadheading, or cutting off the old flowers, should be performed regularly throughout the blooming period. At the end of the blooming season, usually in late summer or early fall, the plant can be cut back to the ground to keep it tidy and to help rejuvenate it for the next spring. Pruning is also an opportunity to remove any damaged or diseased foliage, which can help maintain the health of the plant.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
Avens (Geum 'Lady Stratheden') thrives in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. A good soil mix can include equal parts garden soil, compost, and peat or coir for organic matter content, with some perlite or sand to improve drainage.
- Repotting
Avens (Geum 'Lady Stratheden') generally does not need frequent repotting and can be done every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound.
- Humidity & Misting
Avens (Geum 'Lady Stratheden') prefers average garden humidity conditions and does not require any special humidity adjustments.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Ensure bright light and good air flow for indoor Avens.
Outdoor
Plant in sunny spot, with well-draining soil for outdoor Avens.
Hardiness zone
5-7 USDA
- Life cycle
Geum 'Lady Stratheden', commonly known as Avens, begins its life cycle when the seeds are sown in late winter to spring, germinating in light and warm conditions. After germination, seedlings develop into young plants with a rosette of basal leaves. These perennials typically establish themselves quickly, and by early to mid-summer, they enter the flowering stage, where they produce bright yellow, semi-double flowers on tall, wiry stems. Following pollination, often by insects, the flowers develop into dry, inedible fruits. The plant may become dormant in late autumn and winter, conserving energy underground with its perennial rootstock. In subsequent years, Avens will re-emerge in spring from the rootstock, continuing this cycle by producing new foliage and flowers each season.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Geum 'Lady Stratheden', commonly known as avens, is a perennial plant that is often propagated through division, which is the most popular method for this species. The best time to divide avens is in early spring or fall, when the plant is not in active bloom. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the entire plant, keeping as much of the root system intact as possible. Then, using a sharp knife or spade, cut the plant into several sections, making sure each section has a good piece of the root system and several shoots. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were originally growing, spacing them about 12 inches (approximately 30 centimeters) apart to give them enough room to grow. Water the new divisions thoroughly to help establish them. This method is effective as it helps to rejuvenate older clumps, encourage more vigorous growth, and increase your stock of plants.