White Avens

White Avens
White Avens. Geum canadense.
Rosaceae, the rose family.

Description:
Plant: Erect, rather delicate, branching plant, 1'-3' high, with smooth to hairy stems, and small, white flowers. Perennial.
Flowers: White, about 1/2", with five petals, five pointed sepals approximately equal to the petals in length, and many stamens. The flowers form a very sparse, leafy cluster.
Leaves: Alternate, coarsely toothed, highly variable. Lower leaves are three-parted and petioled. Upper leaves grade from three parts to ovate and sessile.
Fruit: A globular cluster of dry seeds bearing long, stiff, hooked bristles. The form is very characteristic for Geum.
Blooming: June - August
Habitat: Clearings, open woods

Comments: Distinguished from Rough Avens (G. laciniatum), another white-flowered species by larger flower petals, smaller fruit, less divided leaves, and overall more-delicate habit.

Where to find it: Scattered along the borders of the woods near the picnic area, and along the entry road.