Wood Avens, also known as Herb-Bennet (Geum urbanum), is a native UK perennial wildflower with a distinctive charm. It features vibrant yellow flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer, set atop long stems with finely divided leaves. Wood Avens thrives in shaded woodland clearings, hedgerows, and along woodland edges, making it a great addition to mixed plantings and naturalised areas. Its roots release a clove-like aroma, which is a characteristic feature of this plant.
As a woodland plant, Wood Avens flourishes in moist, well-drained soils in partial to full shade, making it perfect for shaded areas in garden borders, woodland restoration projects, and biodiverse landscape schemes. The plant is a good support for pollinators, especially bees, with its nectar-rich flowers.

Features & Benefits
Bright yellow flowers with a clove-like fragrance
Attracts bees, butterflies, and pollinators
Ideal for shaded woodland, hedgerows, and borders
Perennial species with good ecological value
Tolerates a variety of soil types, particularly moist, well-drained soils

Latin Name:
Geum urbanum

Flowering Time:
May – June

Flowering Height:
30 – 60 cm

Life Cycle:
Perennial

Wildflower Seed Approximate Sowing Rate:
2.25kg per acre (5.5kg per hectare)

Sowing Times:
Spring (March – May) or Autumn (August – October)

How to Sow & Preparation
Site Selection: Choose a shaded location with moist, well-drained soil.
Ground Preparation: Clear the site of existing vegetation and prepare the soil to a fine tilth.
Sowing: Broadcast seed evenly over the surface by hand or using a spreader.
Firming: Lightly firm the seed into the soil to ensure good seed contact.
Aftercare: Water if necessary during dry spells; control weed competition to allow seedlings to establish.

About John Chambers Wildflower Seeds
John Chambers Wildflower Seeds has been a trusted supplier of native UK wildflower seeds for over 35 years. Known for its high-quality, locally sourced seed and outstanding customer service, John Chambers provides ecological solutions for landscape contractors, local authorities, and conservationists focused on creating sustainable, biodiverse landscapes.

Latin Name | Geum urbanum

Flowering Time | May – June

Flowering Height | 30 – 60 cm

Life Cycle | Perennial

Sowing Rate | 2.25kg per acre (5.5kg per hectare)

Sowing Period | Spring (March–May) or Autumn (August–October)

Preferred Conditions | Partial to full shade; moist, well-drained soils

Pollinator Friendly | Yes, attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators

Minimum Order Quantity | 100g

Ideal For | Shaded woodland clearings, hedgerows, naturalised borders, woodland restoration