Avens (Geum 'Mrs. J. Bradshaw')
Geum 'Mrs. J. Bradshaw' Avens offers vibrant orange-scarlet blooms atop low foliage. A low-maintenance perennial for zones 5-7.
Scroll down to discover growing tips, care requirements, companion plants, and more
Complete Plant Information
Overview
Geum ‘Mrs. J. Bradshaw’, commonly known as Avens, is highly valued for its long-lasting display of brilliant, semi-double, orange-scarlet flowers held well above the basal foliage clump. This herbaceous perennial provides excellent mid-season color, making it a staple for adding warmth to border plantings between spring bulbs and summer annuals. The foliage of Geum ‘Mrs. J. Bradshaw’ offers a dense, low mound, forming an attractive ground cover even after the prime blooming period concludes.
Cultivating this variety is generally straightforward, requiring medium moisture and well-drained soil. While considered low maintenance, gardeners should note that Geum ‘Mrs. J. Bradshaw’ struggles in intensely hot and humid summers, favoring cooler climates or locations with some afternoon shade where summers are intense. Its reliability and vibrant coloring ensure that Avens remains a favorite choice for cottage gardens and mixed perennial beds.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Rosaceae
- Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 5-7
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 1-2 ft
- Spread: 1-1.5 ft
- Bloom Time: May to June
- Bloom Description: Orange/scarlet
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Water Needs: Medium
- Maintenance Level: Low
How to Grow
Plant Geum ‘Mrs. J. Bradshaw’ in spring or fall, ensuring it receives consistent moisture. The ideal location offers full sun, though afternoon shade is beneficial in hot summer regions to prevent stress. Success hinges on providing well-drained soil; this plant will not tolerate wet conditions, especially during winter dormancy, as poorly drained soils can be fatal to Avens.
Maintain even moisture throughout the growing season, preferring fertile ground. To maximize flower production, be diligent about removing spent flowers promptly. However, you may choose to leave some fading blooms, as the resulting fluffy seed heads are quite attractive. Consider dividing established clumps of this Geum in the spring as needed to maintain robust plant vigor.
This reliable cultivar ‘Mrs. J. Bradshaw’ is known to come true from seed if propagation by division is not desired. Gardeners in the northern extent of its range (Zone 5) will appreciate the evergreen nature of the foliage when winters are mild.
Landscape Uses
Geum ‘Mrs. J. Bradshaw’ excels when massed in drifts along perennial borders, offering a substantial splash of scarlet color where mid-border height is needed. The 1.5 to 2-foot flower stems rise elegantly above the scalloped basal leaves, creating textural contrast against finer-leaved plants. Because the foliage provides good coverage, this Avens is also well-suited for use as an attractive, dense ground cover following its mid-season bloom.
They perform beautifully when paired with plants that thrive in similar conditions, such as blue or purple salvias, low-growing ornamental grasses, or lady’s mantle for textural juxtaposition. Whether placed in rock gardens where drainage is guaranteed or utilized in mass plantings near pathways, the rich orange-scarlet hue of Geum ‘Mrs. J. Bradshaw’ adds undeniable vibrancy.
Standout Features
Flower Qualities
- Showy
Noteworthy Characteristics
‘Mrs. J. Bradshaw’ features semi-double, orange-scarlet flowers (to 1.25” across) which appear in loose panicles on sparsely leafed stems rising well above the foliage to a height of 1.5 to 2’. The scalloped foliage mounds up to 15” high with very large, heart-shaped, terminal leaves. This long, late spring to early summer bloom period may be extended by timely removal of spent flower stems, and attractive, fluffy seed heads form after bloom.
Tolerances
Potential Problems
The primary concern for gardeners cultivating Geum ‘Mrs. J. Bradshaw’ relates to climate stress rather than pests or diseases, as it generally experiences no serious insect or disease issues. The most common cause of decline is poor soil or harsh summer weather. Plants may be short-lived if grown in heavy clay soils that retain too much moisture, or they may struggle significantly in climates that feature hot, humid summers, especially when planted south of USDA Zone 7. Proper drainage is the most effective preventative measure against root issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is Avens suitable for?
Geum ‘Mrs. J. Bradshaw’ Avens is best suited for USDA Hardiness Zones 5 through 7.
How large does Geum ‘Mrs. J. Bradshaw’ grow?
This perennial typically reaches a height of 1 to 2 feet with a spread between 1 and 1.5 feet.
When does Avens bloom?
Geum ‘Mrs. J. Bradshaw’ blooms reliably from May through June, displaying striking orange-scarlet flowers.
What sun exposure does Avens need?
This plant thrives in full sun but benefits greatly from part afternoon shade, especially in warmer parts of its growing range.
Conclusion
Geum ‘Mrs. J. Bradshaw’ provides brilliant, long-lasting color and proves quite durable when its drainage needs are met. The striking orange-scarlet flowers on upright stems make this Avens a valuable addition to any sunny to partially shaded border. Before planting, confirm your growing region falls within USDA Zones 5-7 and ensure your soil maintains the necessary medium moisture and excellent drainage for long-term success with Geum ‘Mrs. J. Bradshaw’.
Companion Planting
When selecting companions for Geum ‘Mrs. J. Bradshaw’, focus on plants that appreciate similar spacing and moisture levels while offering contrasting foliage or bloom times. Consider pairing the bright orange-scarlet flowers with cool blues, lavenders, or silvery foliage to maximize visual impact. Good matches include hardy Geraniums (Cranesbill), especially those that bloom later in the season, or medium-height Nepeta (Catmint) which enjoys sun and well-drained conditions.
Avoid planting Avens in areas prone to waterlogging, as moisture-loving plants nearby could encourage root rot in the Geum. The low, dense foliage mound creates a fantastic textural contrast with plants that have finer leaves, so utilizing ornamental grasses or Baptisia as neighbors can enhance the overall structure of the perennial bed design.
Propagation Tips
The noteworthy characteristic of this specific cultivar is that Geum ‘Mrs. J. Bradshaw’ comes true when grown from seed, offering an easy method for increasing stock or sharing plants. However, professional gardeners often prefer division to maintain the established vigor of mature clumps. Divide the root structure of the plants in the spring just as new growth is emerging. Ensure that each division retains a healthy portion of roots and at least a small crown of growing points to establish successfully in its new location.
