White Avens
Geum canadense
Last reviewed: June 2026
Geum canadense (White Avens) is a native forb found across most US states, blooming May through July with small white flowers that attract bees and beetles.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag White Avens as toxic to livestock.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 34 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
White avens is a modest native perennial with small white flowers that bloom from May through July. It forms neat clumps with attractive green foliage and thrives in partial shade with average moisture.
Growing White Avens
Grow White Avens in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
White Avens is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
The small flowers attract native bees and beetles during the summer blooming period. Seeds provide food for small birds and wildlife.
Common questions
- When does White Avens bloom?
- Geum canadense blooms from May through July, producing small white flowers during the late spring and early summer months.
- What pollinators visit White Avens?
- White Avens attracts bees and beetles, which visit the flowers for nectar and pollen during the blooming period.
- Where is Geum canadense native?
- White Avens is native to most US states from coast to coast, including the Northeast, Southeast, Midwest, Great Plains, and parts of the Mountain West.
- What growing conditions does White Avens prefer?
- This adaptable native forb tolerates a range of light conditions from partial sun to shade and grows well in various moisture levels from wet to dry soils.
- Is White Avens toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag White Avens as toxic to livestock.
- Is White Avens HOA-friendly?
- White Avens is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow White Avens? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz