Avens Geum 'Mrs J. Bradshaw' (d)
ABOUT
Geum 'Mrs J. Bradshaw' is a herbaceous perennial plant known for its striking flowers and foliage. It features a rosette of hairy, toothed, pinnate leaves which are medium green in color. The foliage creates an attractive ground-level cluster from which emerge the flower stems. The real showstoppers of this plant are its semi-double to double flowers that bloom profusely from late spring to early summer. These flowers are rich scarlet to orange-red and resemble small, ruffled, bowl-shaped blossoms with prominent yellow stamens at their center, creating a vivid contrast against the green leaves. The overall effect is a colorful, bright addition to the garden landscape that draws the eye and adds a warm, cottage-garden feel to the planting area.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Avens, Mrs. J. Bradshaw Geum, Bradshaw's Beeblossom, Double Bloody Mary
Common names
Geum chiloense 'Mrs J. Bradshaw'.
ToxicityTo humans
Avens, specifically the Geum 'Mrs J. Bradshaw', is generally not toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from consuming this plant, and it is not considered dangerous to humans. It’s always advisable, however, to exercise caution and avoid ingesting plants that are not specifically grown for consumption, as individual allergic reactions or sensitivities can occur.
To pets
Similar to its effects on humans, Avens, including the Geum 'Mrs J. Bradshaw', is not known to be toxic to pets. It does not contain any substances that are known to cause harm to dogs, cats, or other household pets. As with humans, while it is not considered poisonous, it's still best to prevent pets from ingesting ornamental plants to avoid any potential stomach upset or allergic reactions that could arise from eating non-food plants.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Geum 'Mrs. J. Bradshaw' is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects to the garden.
- Long Blooming: This plant offers a prolonged flowering period from late spring to early summer, providing extended visual interest.
- Colorful Display: With its vivid red-orange flowers, it adds a splash of color to borders and flower beds.
- Easy to Grow: It's generally undemanding and can thrive in a range of soil types, though it prefers well-drained soil.
- Drought Resistant: Once established, it exhibits a degree of drought tolerance, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Cottage Garden Appeal: 'Mrs. J. Bradshaw' has a charming, informal look that fits in well with cottage garden styles.
- Low Maintenance: The plant requires minimal upkeep beyond deadheading to promote further blooming and occasional division to maintain vigor.
- Cut Flowers: The blooms make excellent cut flowers for vases and arrangements, adding a natural touch to home decor.
- Cold Hardy: It is capable of withstanding cold winters in many climates, making it suitable for a variety of gardening zones.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Geum 'Mrs. J. Bradshaw' can be used as a natural dye, with its vibrant flowers potentially yielding shades of yellow or orange dye for fabrics.
- In creative arts, the petals of the Avens can be used for eco-printing, a technique where plants are used to make imprints on paper or fabric.
- The dried seed heads of this plant provide an interesting texture for floral arrangements, especially during autumn and winter.
- Avens can also be used in potpourri mixes for its subtle fragrance and decorative appeal when dried.
- Using Avens as a companion plant in the garden can create a visually appealing contrast with its vivid colors alongside green foliage plants.
- The flowers of Avens can be used to decorate cakes and desserts, though they should be used sparingly and ensured that they haven't been treated with pesticides.
- As a teaching tool in schools, Avens can be used to illustrate plant life cycles and pollinator attraction to flowers.
- In eco-friendly weddings or events, the Avens can be used as part of biodegradable confetti, embracing its natural beauty while being mindful of the environment.
- Photographers may use the striking flowers of Avens as a subject or backdrop for macro photography, capturing the intricacies and vivid colors.
- When practicing mindfulness or nature therapy, working with the Avens plant in a garden setting can be soothing and serve as a focus for meditation.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Avens is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Avens is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Cheerfulness: The Geum 'Mrs. J. Bradshaw', also known as Avens, boasts vibrant and lively colored flowers that are often associated with happiness and a positive outlook on life.
- Perseverance: Avens are known for their hardy nature, representing the ability to thrive and persist in challenging conditions.
- Love: With its warm red blossoms, Avens can symbolize passion and deep affection, much like other red flowers.
- Protection: Historically, some species of Geum were believed to have protective properties, guarding against evil and negativity.
WaterThe Avens 'Mrs. J. Bradshaw' prefers consistently moist soil, so it is important to water it regularly, especially during dry spells. Aim to keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged. During the growing season, water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which might be around once a week. Adjust the watering frequency based on weather conditions, watering more often during hot, dry periods and less during cooler, rainy spells. As a general guide, provide the Avens 'Mrs. J. Bradshaw' with about one to two gallons of water every week, making sure to water deeply to encourage root growth.
LightThe Avens 'Mrs. J. Bradshaw' thrives in full sun to partial shade. It performs best when it receives at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. An ideal spot would be an area that gets bright morning light and some afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates. Avoid deeply shaded areas, as this can lead to poor blooming and weak growth.
TemperatureAvens 'Mrs. J. Bradshaw' are hardy in a range of temperatures and can typically endure winter lows down to around -30°F and summer highs up to 90°F. The ideal temperature for vigorous growth and flowering is between 60°F and 75°F. Ensure that the plant is not subjected to sudden temperature fluctuations and is mulched well to protect roots in the winter.
PruningPrune Avens 'Mrs. J. Bradshaw' to remove spent flowers (deadheading) and encourage continued blooming throughout the growing season. Deadheading can be done regularly, whenever the flowers fade. In addition, cut back the foliage in late fall or early spring to tidy the plant and promote healthy new growth. The best time for major pruning is in the spring, just as the plant is beginning to show signs of new growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Geum 'Mrs J. Bradshaw', commonly known as Avens, is a well-draining, fertile mix with added organic matter such as compost. A slightly acidic to neutral pH of 5.5 to 7.0 is ideal for optimal growth.
RepottingAvens should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current pot to ensure enough space for root expansion and prevent crowding.
Humidity & MistingAvens thrives in average humidity conditions and does not require any special humidity adjustments in its environment.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Avens in bright indirect light and keep soil moist.
Outdoor
Plant Avens in full sun to partial shade with moist soil.
Hardiness zone
5-7 USDA
Life cycleGeum 'Mrs J. Bradshaw', commonly known as Avens, begins its life cycle as a seed, which requires a moist, well-draining soil to germinate. The seedling emerges with basic leaves and establishes a small root system, entering the vegetative stage where it grows true leaves and stems, gradually forming a leafy plant. As the Avens matures, it develops a robust rootstock with a clumping habit, which allows it to overwinter and become a hardy perennial. Once mature, the plant produces bright, semi-double red or orange flowers on tall stems in late spring to early summer, attracting pollinators. After pollination, seed heads form and, if not deadheaded, will disperse seeds, facilitating the spread of new plants. Post-flowering, Avens enters a period of dormancy in late autumn to winter, conserving energy for the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Geum 'Mrs. J. Bradshaw', commonly known as Avens, is typically propagated by division. The best time to divide this perennial is in the spring or early fall when the plant is not in active flowering. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the plant and gently separate it into smaller clumps, each with several shoots and a portion of the root system. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were previously growing, ensuring that each new plant has adequate space to develop. Water the new divisions well to help establish them. This method is not only efficient for increasing the number of plants but also helps to rejuvenate older clumps that may have become woody or less vigorous over time.
