Scarlet avens (Geum coccineum)
Care, watering, light and tips for Scarlet avens on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Rosaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 4 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 0–30 °C
About Scarlet avens
Geum coccineum, commonly known as Scarlet Avens, is a herbaceous perennial from the Rosaceae family, prized for its vibrant orange or bright red flowers reminiscent of small roses. It forms dense clumps of lobed green foliage and blooms profusely from late spring to mid-summer. It is ideal for garden borders, rock gardens, or as an underplanting, adding an intense and cheerful splash of color.
Native range
Southeastern Europe and Asia Minor
Care tips
It thrives in full sun to partial shade, with at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight for optimal flowering. Watering should be regular, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during dry spells and blooming periods. It requires well-drained soil, rich in organic matter, and slightly acidic to neutral. A common mistake is planting it in heavy, poorly drained soils, which can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Scarlet avens
- Warning signs
- Yellowing/browning, wilting leaves; stunted growth. Could be water stress or too much heat.
- First aid
- Check soil moisture. If dry, water deeply. If waterlogged, aerate or repot. Move to cool, partial shade.
- What kills it
- Prolonged drought in summer or constant waterlogging. Doesn't tolerate intense direct sun or heavy soils.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act fast. It's robust. Prune damaged parts and optimize watering and location.