Botanical name:

Geum leiospermum 

Common name(s):

Geum, mountain avens

About:

A low-growing species that forms rosettes, featuring small, rounded leaves with toothed edges in a brownish-green hue. During summer, it produces single white flowers on stems that can reach heights of 20 cm, with flowers measuring up to 1.2 cm in width. This species is typically located in localised subalpine and alpine regions of the North Island, while it is more prevalent in the mountains of the South Island. It is an appealing choice for rock gardens, especially when planted in groups. Prefers a cool, moist environment.

Natural habitat: 

Montane to subalpine, in scrub, bogs, herb-field, tussock grassland, fell field, snowbanks, and stream-banks.

Growing environment:

Frost, Shade, Wetland, Wind & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s North (Mt Egmont & Ruahine Range only) South and Stewart Islands

Height: 20cm

Flowering:  

November – February with a white coloured flower/s 

Fruiting:

January – April

Uses: 

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food, Riparian plantings & Containers.

How to grow:

Easily grown in pots in an alpine house, and in cooler climates within a rock garden. Best grown from fresh seed.

** Seed germinates without pre treatment. 4 weeks cold stratification will help speed this up though