Rough avens (Geum laciniatum, Novi Comment. Soc. Regiae Sci. Gott. 5: 30 (1775))

Family: Rosaceae

Author: Murray

Bibliography: Novi Comment. Soc. Regiae Sci. Gott. 5: 30 (1775)

Year: 1775

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Geum

Vegetable: False

Observations: E. Canada to NC. & E. U.S.A.

Description

Rough avens, scientifically known as Geum laciniatum, is a notable member of the Rosaceae family, a family celebrated for its diverse and widespread plant species. Described by the esteemed Murray in the 1775 publication of “Novi Comment. Soc. Regiae Sci. Gott. 5: 30,” this plant holds a significant place in botanical literature and vegetation history.

Geum laciniatum thrives across a wide geographic range, spanning from Eastern Canada through to the eastern regions of the United States, extending as far south as North Carolina. This hardy perennial is well-adapted to various climates and soil conditions, proving itself a resilient component of the native flora.

Rough avens is easily recognizable by its distinct, deeply lobed leaves and modest yet charming yellow flowers, which typically bloom in the late spring to early summer. The flowers, though small, exhibit a delicate beauty that adds a subtle splash of color to natural landscapes. Following the flowering phase, the plant produces small, spiky seed heads that are characteristic of many avens species.

Ecologically, Geum laciniatum plays a valuable role in its native habitat. It provides nectar and pollen for various pollinators and serves as a food source for certain insects. Additionally, its presence contributes to the biodiversity and stability of the ecosystems it inhabits.

Gardeners and naturalists alike value Rough avens for its low-maintenance nature and its ability to thrive in various conditions, making it a good choice for native plant gardens and restoration projects. Its adaptability, coupled with its understated beauty, makes Geum laciniatum a well-regarded species among botanists and plant enthusiasts.

In summary, Rough avens (Geum laciniatum) is a resilient and versatile species that enriches the flora of Eastern North America. Its historical significance, ecological value, and adaptable nature contribute to its distinguished status within the plant kingdom.

Common Names

Eng: rough avens, cut-leaved avens, slashing avens
Fra: benoîte laciniée
En: Rough avens, Cut-leaved avens, Slashing avens
Fr: Benoîte laciniée

Synonyms

• Geum laciniatum var. trichocarpum (Fernald)

Distribution

• Connecticut (native)
• Delaware (native)
• District of Columbia (native)
• Illinois (native)
• Indiana (native)
• Iowa (native)
• Kansas (native)
• Kentucky (native)
• Maine (native)
• Maryland (native)
• Masachusettes (native)
• Michigan (native)
• Minnesota (native)
• Missouri (native)
• Nebraska (native)
• New Brunswick (native)
• New Hampshire (native)
• New Jersey (native)
• New York (native)
• North Carolina (native)
• Nova Scotia (native)
• Ohio (native)
• Ontario (native)
• Pennsylvania (native)
• Prince Edward I. (native)
• Québec (native)
• Rhode I. (native)
• South Dakota (native)
• Tennessee (native)
• Vermont (native)
• Virginia (native)
• West Virginia (native)
• Wisconsin (native)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Jun 18, 2022 by William Coville (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 29, 2022 by William Coville (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 20, 2020 by Michael Finch (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 28, 2022 by Guillaume Murray (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 24, 2019 by Lisa J (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Jun 18, 2022 by William Coville (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 31, 2021 by Tristan Demone (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 22, 2021 by Mathieu Landry (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 15, 2020 by Gayle Judkins (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 13, 2006 by EOL − Frank Mayfield (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Jul 3, 2021 by Jasper Edwards (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 2, 2020 by solazy (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 1, 2008 by EOL − Frank Mayfield (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 29, 2022 by William Coville (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 24, 2019 by Lisa J (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Jul 6, 2022 by PT (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 21, 2021 by Vas Littlecrow Wojtanowicz (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 26, 2022 by PT (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 1, 2008 by EOL − Frank Mayfield (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 24, 2020 by Kyle Grubb (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Jun 29, 2022 by Joseph Moulaison (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 26, 2022 by PT (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 24, 2020 by Kyle Grubb (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken Jul 6, 2022 by PT (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5369645)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:725280-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Geum laciniatum Murray)

Specifications

Growth form>: Multiple Stem

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth rate>: Rapid

Growth

Ph maximum: 7.0

Ph minimum: 5.0