Geum rivale 'Water Avens'

[Ex. Co. Durham, England]

Rosaceae: Downy perennial of damp meadows, marshes and mountain ledges, mostly on rich soils, nodding bell-shaped flowers, comprising dark red sepals and pink petals, blooming from May-September, same bur-like fruits as for G. urbanum, but feathery, locally common across the British Isles.

USES:

The plants roots can be used either fresh or dried, the root can be boiled in water to make a delicious chocolate-like drink, and it can also be used as a seasoning. Best harvested in the spring or autumn but can be used all year round, it was once used to flavour ales. 

The root has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, aromatic, astringent, diaphoretic, febrifuge, stomachic, styptic and tonic properties. It can be applied externally as a wash to various skin afflictions - it is said to remove spots, freckles and eruptions from the face.

GROWING INFORMATION: 

Best sown in the autumn or spring, very easy from seed. Hybridises freely with other members of this genus, especially with G. urbanum.

HARVESTED: 2019

APPROX. 100+ SEEDS