Yellow Avens
Geum aleppicum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Geum aleppicum (Yellow Avens) is a native North American forb blooming yellow flowers from May through August. This adaptable wildflower grows across diverse regions from mountains to woodlands.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, CT and 29 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Yellow avens is a native perennial that produces bright yellow, five-petaled flowers from late spring through summer. This adaptable wildflower forms neat clumps with attractive divided foliage and thrives in partial sun with average moisture.
Growing Yellow Avens
Grow Yellow Avens in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 6 to 18 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Yellow Avens takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Wild appearance may be considered weedy
- Informal growth habit lacks structured look
- May self-seed and spread beyond intended areas
Wildlife value
The cheerful yellow blooms attract various native bees and beetles throughout the long flowering season. Seeds provide food for small birds and wildlife.
Common questions
- When does Yellow Avens bloom?
- Geum aleppicum blooms from May through August, producing bright yellow flowers that attract various pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Yellow Avens?
- Yellow Avens attracts bees and beetles, which help pollinate the flowers during the extended bloom period.
- Where is Yellow Avens native?
- Geum aleppicum is native across much of North America, including western states like Arizona and California, mountain states like Colorado and Montana, and eastern regions from Maine to North Carolina.
- What growing conditions does Yellow Avens prefer?
- This adaptable forb tolerates various light conditions from full sun to partial shade and prefers medium to moist soil conditions.
- Is Yellow Avens HOA-friendly?
- Yellow Avens takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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 Yellow 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