Chilean Avens Geum chiloense 'Red Dragon'
ABOUT
The Geum chiloense 'Red Dragon', also known as the Red Dragon avens, is a striking perennial plant known for its vibrant display of flowers and attractive foliage. The plant produces a basal rosette of hairy, deep green leaves that are often pinnately divided into several leaflets, giving them a textured and lush appearance. In contrast to the rich green foliage, the flowers of the Red Dragon avens are its most distinguishing feature, with bold, semi-double to double blossoms that flaunt a vivid red hue. The petals are rounded and slightly ruffled, and they form a cup-like shape that adds a sense of depth and intricacy to the blooms. The flowers are borne atop slender, branching stems that rise above the foliage, creating an eye-catching display of color that can be seen swaying gently in the breeze. The bloom period v usually spans late spring to early summer and can extend into the fall with the right conditions, offering a long season of visual interest. Overall, the Red Dragon avens presents a harmonious combination of richly colored blossoms and verdant foliage that make it a favorite in garden settings for its ornamental appeal.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Chilean Avens, Red Dragon Geum
Common names
Geum chiloense 'Red Dragon'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Geum chiloense 'Red Dragon', commonly known as Chilean avens, is not widely known to be toxic to humans. Therefore, ingesting parts of the Chilean avens typically does not result in poisoning or severe consequences for most individuals. However, as with any plant, sensitivity varies among people, and some may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if parts of the plant are consumed. It is always best to err on the side of caution and not eat plants not recognized as food sources.
To pets
The Geum chiloense 'Red Dragon', commonly known as Chilean avens, is not commonly listed as a toxic plant to pets such as dogs and cats. However, individual animals may have different sensitivities, and ingestion could potentially lead to mild digestive upset. It's always prudent to prevent your pets from consuming plants that are not part of their intended diet to avoid any potential issues. If you suspect your pet has ingested a large amount of Chilean avens and is showing signs of illness, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Spread
1.5 feet (0.46 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Chile
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds bright color and visual interest to gardens with its fiery red flowers.
- Pollinator Friendly: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects that contribute to a healthy ecosystem.
- Easy to Grow: Known for being low-maintenance, requiring minimal care once established.
- Long Blooming: Produces flowers for an extended period, often from late spring through summer.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it can withstand periods of low water, making it suitable for xeriscaping.
- Soil Adaptability: Tolerates a wide range of soil types, although it prefers well-drained soil.
- Cold Hardy: Capable of surviving in cooler climates and can handle frost reasonably well.
- Border Planting: Works well when planted in borders, adding structure and continuous color to garden designs.
- Compact Size: Suitable for small gardens or spaces due to its relatively compact growing habit.
- Cottage Garden Style: Fits well in cottage garden designs with its traditional look and feel.
- Wildlife Habitat: Provides shelter and food for various small wildlife within a garden setting.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Geum chiloense 'Red Dragon', also known as Avens, can be used in cut flower arrangements due to its vibrant red petals and long vase life.
- In arts and crafts, the dried seed heads of Avens can be incorporated into floral displays and decorations for a touch of natural beauty.
- Avens petals can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, yielding hues that range from yellow to green depending on the mordant used.
- The plant can serve as a companion plant in gardens, as it is believed to repel certain pests and attract beneficial insects.
- Avens can be used in educational settings, such as school gardens, to teach about pollination and the lifecycle of perennial plants.
- Its vibrant flowers make Avens a popular subject for photography and painting, inspiring artistic endeavors that capture its vivid colors.
- The leaves of Geum chiloense 'Red Dragon' can be used as a decorative garnish for culinary dishes, though they are not typically consumed.
- In eco-friendly landscaping, Avens can be used for slope stabilization and erosion control due to its spreading habit and robust root system.
- Avens can be a part of sensory gardens, particularly designed for the visually impaired, because of its bright color providing high contrast within the planting scheme.
- Lastly, Geum chiloense 'Red Dragon' can be utilized in butterfly gardens to attract and support a variety of butterfly species with its nectar-rich flowers.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Avens is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Avens is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Passion: The fiery red petals of the Avens (Geum chiloense 'Red Dragon') are emblematic of deep passion and strong emotions.
- Energy: Red being a color of vitality, the Avens can symbolize a burst of energy or an active spirit.
- Courage: Just as a dragon represents bravery, the 'Red Dragon' variety of Avens can be a symbol of courage and boldness.
- Protection: Dragons are often seen as guardians, and in a similar sense, the 'Red Dragon' Avens can symbolize protective qualities.
WaterThe Chilean Avens 'Red Dragon' needs regular watering to maintain moist, but not waterlogged soil. Water thoroughly once or twice a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water each time, depending on weather conditions. During hot or dry spells, increase watering frequency to prevent the soil from drying out completely, but always check the soil moisture level before watering. During the winter months, reduce the amount of water to match the plant's reduced growth rate and prevent root rot from excess moisture.
LightChilean Avens 'Red Dragon' thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. The ideal location is a spot where it can receive at least 6 hours of sunlight a day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates to prevent scorching. Avoid deep shade, as too little light can lead to poor flowering and leggy growth.
TemperatureChilean Avens 'Red Dragon' prefers moderate temperatures, thriving best between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive minimum temperatures down to 0 degrees Fahrenheit and maximum temperatures up to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, but prolonged exposure to these extremes can stress the plant. Ensure it's planted in a location that does not experience drastic temperature fluctuations for optimal health.
PruningPruning Chilean Avens 'Red Dragon' is essential for maintaining plant health and encouraging continuous blooming. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to stimulate new growth, and cut back the plant by one-third after the first flush of blooms to promote a second blooming phase. Prune the plant back to the ground in late fall or early winter to help rejuvenate it for the next growing season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Chilean Avens 'Red Dragon' thrives best in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter, such as compost or peat moss. A soil mix with equal parts garden soil, compost, and sharp sand or perlite is ideal. The preferred soil pH for this plant is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.5 to 7.0.
RepottingChilean Avens ‘Red Dragon’ typically does not need to be repotted often as it is not a container-focused plant; it is usually grown in gardens. However, if grown in containers, repot every 2 to 3 years in spring to refresh the soil.
Humidity & MistingChilean Avens 'Red Dragon' is adaptable to a range of humidity levels and does well in the average humidity found in outdoor garden settings. It does not require high humidity environments and performs well without the need for specific humidity adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in partial to full sun, ensure soil is well-drained.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleGeum chiloense 'Red Dragon', commonly known as Chilean Avens, begins its life cycle as a seed, which upon finding suitable moist and fertile conditions, germinates typically in spring. The seedling develops into a rosette of leaves close to the ground, which will grow and mature over the course of the first season. As a perennial, it then enters a period of dormancy during the colder months, with growth slowing or pausing until conditions are favorable again. In its second year and subsequent years, the Chilean Avens progresses to the flowering stage in late spring or early summer, producing distinctive red flowers that attract pollinators and can lead to seed formation if fertilization occurs. After the flowering period, seeds are produced and dispersed, completing the reproductive cycle. Finally, at the end of its life, which can be several years given optimal conditions, the plant will die back, leaving seeds to continue the species' presence in its environment.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating the Geum chiloense 'Red Dragon', commonly known as Chilean avens, is by division. This technique is typically performed in the spring or early fall. To propagate by division, gently lift the plant from the soil using a spade, ensuring that you have a good amount of roots attached. Carefully separate the plant into smaller clumps, making sure each clump has at least one growth bud. Replant the divisions immediately, spacing them about 12 inches (approximately 30 cm) apart, at the same depth they were growing before. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly to help establish them. This method allows for rapid increase and helps maintain the vigor and bloom quality of the original plant.
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