prairie smoke

Geum triflorum (prairie smoke) is one of the most recognizable plants of the prairie, thanks to feathery, smoky appearance in the landscape, particularly when planted in groupings

This North American native member of the Rosaceae is found in the wild from Canada, west to California, east to New York, and into southern southern Illinois. 

The leaves of prairie smoke are equally as impressive as the flowers – having a green rough fern-like appearance in the spring and summer, while bringing deep maroon reds to the winter garden.

Prairie smoke grow best in full sun and rocky or sandy soil with moderate moisture. It creates dense mats of ground-level vegetation, which is both great for controlling weeds during the growing season. It is a four season plant – it can almost be considered ‘evergreen’ as its leaves retains color through fall and winter.

Botanical Name Geum triflorum
Common Name prairie smoke
Family Rosaceae
USDA Zone 3 thru 7
Light Requirement Full Sun
Season(s) of interest spring, winter
Height and Spread 0.5-1.5ft x 0.5-1ft (15-45cm x 15-30cm)
Flower Color Pink
Attracts Wildlife Attracts Pollinators, Rarely Browsed by Mammalian Herbivores
Additional Information Native to Chicago Region.
Location in Lurie Garden West Meadow, East Meadow, Northeast Light Plate, Northwest Light Plate, Southwest Light Plate, Southeast Light Plate, Extrusion Plaza

 

Average Flowering Time