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White avens

How to identify White avens (Geum canadense)

White avens

White avens reaches a moderate height of 1.5 to 2.5 feet (45 to 76 cm) and is distinguished by its presence in woodland groundcover. Its blooming period is noticeable in early to late spring, extending into early summer, when it displays its reproductive prowess. The foliage of white avens is a key identifying feature, typically forming a basal rosette from which sprouts a flower-bearing stem. The flowers themselves are white and modest, with a characteristic structure typical of the rose family. These aspects together with the plant's stature make white avens a recognizable species within its native regions.

Lifespan

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type

Leaf Type: Semi-evergreen

Quickly Identify White avens

1

Basal rosette of compound leaves with lobed margins.

2

White flowers with 5 rounded petals and 5 pointed sepals.

3

Indented, strawberry leaf-like structure at petiole base.

4

Green fruit clusters with persistent hooked styles.

5

Slender, hairy stem with erect growth habit.

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Detailed Traits of White avens

Leaf Features

The leaves of white avens exhibit considerable variation but typically measure up to 4 inches (10 cm) long and 3 inches (7.5 cm) wide. Basal leaves form a 6-inch (15 cm) rosette with compound leaves having 3-7 leaflets and long petioles. Lower stem leaves are usually compound with 3 leaflets, while upper leaves are simple, alternate, and smaller with shorter or no petioles. Margins are serrated, often divided into 3 lobes, and both sides may have sparse hairs. A strawberry leaf-like structure is present at the petiole base.

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Flower Features

The flowers of white avens are approximately 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) wide, with 5 rounded white petals and 5 pointed green sepals. Numerous stamens encircle a dome-shaped center of green carpels. Blooming from early to late spring into early summer, these flowers typically arise in groups of 1-3 from the terminal stem and the axis of upper stems. They are distinct with their simple, yet elegant whitish appearance and are key identifying features of this plant.

White avens Flower imageWhite avens Flower image
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Stem Features

The stem of white avens is characterized by its round, green upper sections which are pubescent, featuring a fine layer of soft hairs. In contrast, the lower stems may exhibit a brownish-green hue and are coarsely hairy. Overall, the stem is slender, typically ranging in diameter from 1/16 to 1/8 inch (1.5 to 3 mm). The plant stems are notably erect and may have a few branches emanating towards the upper portions, contributing to its distinctive texture and appearance.

White avens Stem image
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Fruit Features

The fruit of white avens consists of a round cluster of green achenes that are roughly 3/4 inch (2 cm) in diameter. These achenes develop a brown hue as they mature. One of the defining characteristics is the presence of persistent styles that are uniquely hooked at their tips. This adaptation not only aids in identification but also serves a practical dispersal function by enabling the fruit to attach to passing animals or fabrics, assisting in the spread of the seeds from the parent plant.

White avens Fruit imageWhite avens Fruit image
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Key Facts About White avens

Attributes of White avens
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Herb
Plant Height
30 cm to 1 m
Spread
30 cm to 90 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf type
Semi-evergreen
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Scientific Classification of White avens

Family
Rose
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Genus
Avens
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Species
White avens (Geum canadense)
Learn More About the White avens

Distribution Map of White avens

White avens (Geum canadense) is native to the central and eastern parts of North America and parts of Central America. This species has not spread outside its native range, and is found along forest edges and in meadows. This flower is only occasionally grown ornamentally, mainly within its natural range.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
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