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Cream Avens

Geum virginianum

Last reviewed: August 2026

Cream Avens (Geum virginianum)
Photo: Michael J. Papay / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0)

Toxicity unknown

Cream Avens (Geum virginianum) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

Light

part sun

Water

medium

Size

12"–24" H × 8"–12" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul

Native to

AL, AR, CT, DE and 21 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Before you buy

Your city may pay you to plant this

Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 437 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.

Find rebates in your area

Cream avens is a compact native perennial with small, pale yellow flowers that bloom from late spring through summer. This low-growing wildflower forms neat clumps and works well as groundcover or in woodland gardens with partial shade.

In an HOA neighborhood

Cream Avens is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.

Works well in: foundation, mid zone.

  • Small flowers may appear too subtle for formal landscapes
  • Unknown winter appearance could be concerning

Wildlife value

The small flowers attract native bees and beetles during its extended bloom period from May through July.

Common questions

How much sun does Cream Avens need?
Cream Avens grows best in part sun conditions.
When does Cream Avens bloom?
Cream Avens blooms in May, June, and July.
Where is Cream Avens native?
Cream Avens (Geum virginianum) is native to AL, AR, CT, DE and 21 more states, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
What pollinators does Cream Avens attract?
Cream Avens draws bees and beetles.
Is Cream Avens HOA-friendly?
Cream Avens is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

Native range data from the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Cream Avens? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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