All About Avens (Geum ‘Totally Tangerine’)
What is avens (Geum ‘Totally Tangerine’)?
Avens (Geum ‘Totally Tangerine’) is a remarkable perennial plant known for its vibrant, orange flowers that bloom profusely from spring through early summer. This plant is a part of the rose family (Rosaceae) and belongs to the genus Geum, encompassing around 50 species of herbaceous and semi-evergreen perennials. Geum ‘Totally Tangerine’ is a hybrid variety known for its remarkable beauty, which has made it a sought-after addition to gardens and landscapes.
Key Takeaways – Avens (Geum ‘Totally Tangerine’)
- Scientific Name: Geum ‘Totally Tangerine’
- Family: Rosaceae
- Common Name: Avens
- Type: Herbaceous perennial
- Flower Color: Bright orange
- Bloom Time: Spring to early summer
- Attracts: Pollinators, especially bees and butterflies
Culture
Uses of Avens (Geum ‘Totally Tangerine’)
Avens, particularly the ‘Totally Tangerine’ variety, is predominantly cultivated for ornamental purposes. Its striking, orange flowers add a burst of color to gardens, making it a focal point in mixed borders, rock gardens, and cottage-style landscapes. The long-lasting flowers also make this plant an excellent choice for cut flower arrangements, bringing a touch of the outdoors into the home.
Care Guide
Water
Avens (Geum ‘Totally Tangerine’) has moderate water needs. While it thrives in consistently moist soil, it is important to avoid waterlogging. Once established, this plant demonstrates good drought tolerance, making it suitable for areas with sporadic rainfall or dry spells.
Sunlight
When it comes to sunlight, avens flourish in partial shade to full sun. However, in regions with excessively hot summers, providing some protection from the intense afternoon sun can help prevent the plant from wilting.
Fertilizer
A balanced, all-purpose fertilizer applied in early spring can support the healthy growth and abundant blooming of Geum ‘Totally Tangerine’. It’s essential to follow the specific application instructions on the fertilizer packaging to avoid overfeeding.
Soil
The ideal soil for avens comprises well-draining, loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. It is beneficial to incorporate organic matter, such as compost, into the soil before planting to enhance its fertility and texture.
Pruning
Pruning avens (Geum ‘Totally Tangerine’) primarily involves deadheading spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. As the flowering season winds down, trimming back the plant can help maintain a tidy appearance while also stimulating fresh growth.
Propagation
Avens can be propagated through division, especially in early spring or fall, ensuring that each division consists of healthy roots and shoots. Additionally, it is possible to propagate avens from seed, sowing them in a prepared seedbed in late spring to early summer.
Container Popularity
While avens (Geum ‘Totally Tangerine’) can thrive in garden beds, its compact and clump-forming nature also makes it well-suited for container cultivation. This plant can bring a cheerful touch to patio planters, adding vibrant color and attracting pollinators to container gardens.
Common Diseases
Avens are relatively resistant to diseases, particularly when grown in optimal conditions. However, as with any plant, they may occasionally encounter issues such as powdery mildew, which can be minimized through good air circulation and by avoiding overhead watering.
Disease Diagnosis
It is crucial to promptly identify and address any signs of disease in avens. Regularly inspecting the foliage for discoloration, wilting, or unusual growth can aid in early detection and treatment of any potential disease.
Common Pests
Avens are generally resistant to most pests, but aphids and slugs may occasionally pose a nuisance to these plants. Promptly addressing these pest issues through manual removal or appropriate treatment can help protect the plant’s overall health and appearance.
Botanist’s Tips
- When planting avens, ensure that the crown – the point where the stems meet the roots – is level with the soil surface to prevent rotting and ensure proper growth.
- Mulching around avens can help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and deter weed growth, benefitting the overall health of the plant.
Fun Facts
- The genus name “Geum” originates from the Greek word “geno,” meaning to give flavor, possibly in reference to the slightly aromatic roots of some species.
- The ‘Totally Tangerine’ cultivar was awarded the prestigious Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit for its outstanding garden performance and appeal to gardeners and pollinators alike.
Links to External Resources
To learn more about avens (Geum ‘Totally Tangerine’), explore the following resources:
– Royal Horticultural Society – Geum ‘Totally Tangerine’
– Missouri Botanical Garden – Geum ‘Totally Tangerine’
– North Carolina State University – Geum Species
In conclusion, avens (Geum ‘Totally Tangerine’) is a captivating perennial that blends vibrant color, minimal maintenance, and pollinator appeal into a single plant. Its versatility in various landscape settings, coupled with its delightful blooms, makes it a valuable addition to any garden. By providing the appropriate care and environment, this charming plant can thrive and reward gardeners with an enduring display of bright, tangerine-hued flowers.
