Water Avens (Geum rivale)

Family: Rosaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Geum rivale is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft) by 0.3 m (1ft in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from May to September, and the seeds ripen from June to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

delicious chocolate-like drink. — The dried or fresh root can be boiled in water to make a delicious chocolate-like drink.; It can also be used as a seasoning.; It is best harvested in the spring or autumn but can be used all year round.; Fragrant, it was once used to flavour ales.

Habitat & North American Range

Damp places, such as moist ditches and streamsides, most frequently in the shade. (Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7)