Wood Avens Seeds

A Herb with Clove-Scented Roots

Wood Avens Seeds grow a perennial herb with a surprising secret beneath the soil: clove-scented roots. Traditionally, Europeans used these aromatic roots to flavour ale, soups and stews. This modest woodland plant brings an unusual piece of kitchen history into your garden.

The accepted botanical name is Geum urbanum L., a member of the rose family. Its common names include Wood Avens, Herb Bennet, Common Avens, Avens, Colewort, Benedict’s Herb, Bennet’s Root and Avens Root. Other recorded names include Blessed Herb, City Avens, Clove Root, Cloveroot, European Avens, St Benedict’s Herb and Old Man’s Whiskers. Regional names also include Indian Chocolate, Mapgoll, Minarta, Star of the Earth and Water Flower.

Small Flowers, Remarkable Details

Small, five-petalled yellow flowers rise above a leafy basal clump during the warmer months. Afterwards, distinctive hooked seed heads catch on passing fur or clothing, helping the plant travel beyond its original patch.

Underground, a short rhizome supports a network of wiry roots. Its clove-like fragrance gives it the name Clove Root. Young leaves have also been used in salads and soups.

For a garden that explores familiar flavours from unexpected sources, pair this herb with Lovage or a Clove Tree. Each offers a different connection between growing plants and traditional cooking.

Growing Wood Avens Seeds

Choose moist, well-drained soil in partial shade, particularly where Australian summers bring strong afternoon heat. In cooler gardens, sunnier positions can also suit if the soil retains moisture.

Allow approximately 45 cm of space for the developing clump. Flowering stems can reach around 60 cm, depending on conditions. This frost-hardy perennial appreciates regular watering during dry weather.

Remove spent flower stems before the hooked seeds mature to limit self-seeding. Plant beside a woodland border or shaded herb bed where you can enjoy its delicate flowers and curious seed heads.