Also called: Prairie Smoke, Avens

Geum triflorum
Geum, a classical Latin name; triflorum, three flowered
(Geum often produces clusters of 3 blooms on a branch)

Description. Old Man’s Whiskers, of the Rose family, is a rhizomatous perennial growing 6-16” (16-40cm) high and wide. It’s pendulous pink and yellow bell-like blooms show in late spring or early summer, followed by the smoke-like erect seed styles (the long fuzzy tails that assist seeds with dispersing on the breeze). Geum triflorum can be found growing in our dry open grasslands and forests, but are easily decimated by soil disturbance and the influx of weeds. On Knox Mountain Park Geum may often be found growing in areas with Indian Paintbrush.

Historical plant use. After processing, various parts of the plant were used for teas, infusions or salves. Geum was useful in treating colds and fevers, aches and pains, as an eyewash and as a mouthwash for sore throats.

Unusual aspects of this plant. The seeds were crushed and used as a perfume.