Water Avens
Herbaceous perennial reaching 30-60 cm tall. Features pinnately compound basal leaves and nodding, pinkish-purple flowers blooming in late spring to early summer. Prefers consistently moist to wet soils and partial shade to full sun. Attracts butterflies and bees. Suitable for rain gardens, stream banks, and moist woodland edges. Native to northern regions of North America, Europe, and Asia.
Plant Details
Bloom Colour: Reddish-Purple
Bloom Time: Late-Spring to Early-Summer
Sun Requirements: Part-Shade to Shade
Moisture: Moist to Wet
Phenology: Semi-evergreen basal leaves. New growth emerges April. Nodding flowers appear May-June. Seeds with feathery tails mature July. Basal foliage often persists through winter.
Wildlife Value: Nectar source for native bees and butterflies; seeds eaten by birds; foliage provides cover for small wildlife
Habit Over Time: Creates loose clumps of basal foliage with nodding flowers on delicate stems. Gradually expands through short rhizomes but maintains a well-behaved, clumping habit. The open growth pattern allows plenty of space for interplanting with complementary species. Self-seeds modestly but not aggressively.
Height: Short to Medium (1-2 feet)