Avens Flames of Passion A long-flowering hybrid of water avens, Geum Flames of Passion is a compact, evergreen to semi-evergreen perennial with a clump-forming habit and deep red stems. It forms a mound of attractive, lobed, slightly hairy, mid-green leaves, over which rise, in May and June and into July, delicate, semi-double flowers, .8”/2cm across, on long, slender stems. From deep red buds, the flowers emerge strawberry-pink rather than red, with golden stamens and a green eye, and have a graceful, drooping, nodding appearance. A good, nectar- and pollen-rich plant for pollinators. Plant with compost or manure, and mulch lightly in spring. Dead-head to prolong flowering, and divide every two to three years. Site: Sheltered, cool siteSoil: Any moist, cool, humus-rich, well-drained soilPosition: Best in dappled shade; tolerates full sunSeason of interest: Spring to autumnHardiness: Fully hardyHeight: up to 18’ (45cm) Spread: up to 18” (45cm) Photo by Patrick Standish, cropped, and licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.