Unlike showier wildflowers, White Avens blends into the understory, but its hooked seeds often reveal its presence later in the season.
Fruits have tiny hooked bristles that readily cling to fur, feathers, or clothing, helping the plant spread—nature’s original “stick-tight.”
Related to other avens species used historically by indigenous peoples for digestive teas and poultices. Roots of some avens have a clove-like aroma due to eugenol.
Unlike showier wildflowers, White Avens blends into the understory, but its hooked seeds often reveal its presence later in the season.
Fruits have tiny hooked bristles that readily cling to fur, feathers, or clothing, helping the plant spread—nature’s original “stick-tight.”
Related to other avens species used historically by indigenous peoples for digestive teas and poultices. Roots of some avens have a clove-like aroma due to eugenol.
Bloom: summer
Habitats: edges of yards; fence rows with woody vegetation; mesic deciduous woodlands; partially shaded seeps; powerline clearances in wooded areas; thickets; woodland borders
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: moist to slightly dry
Plant type (height): forb (1.5 to 2.5 feet)
Requirements: partial sun to light shade
Soil: clay-loam; loam
