Geum triflorum
Be on the lookout for Geum triflorum in May, more commonly known as prairie smoke, torchflower, old mans’ whiskers, or three flowered avens
With May finally here, the plant life in the province is ready for the new season. One to be on the lookout for in May is Geum triflorum Pursh, more commonly known as prairie smoke, torchflower, old mans’ whiskers, or three flowered avens. These names primarily come from the description of the dramatic flair these flowers have, once they are fully mature. The long, wispy appendages are extensions of the style from each of the multiple achenes. The younger flowers have a more subdued and nodding posture. The example below shows flowers at both stages of maturity.
This specimen was collected in early June of 1969, but this species will begin flowering in the middle of May and continue into mid-late June. It’s relatively easy to spot this plant extending above the grass at this time of the year, and its maroon/purple stem and calyx help it stand out in a sea of green.
