Prairie Smoke (Geum triflorum)

Light:

Sun or part sun

Flowering:

Spring followed by showy seed heads

Soil:

Any well-drained soil

Height:

4 to 12 inches

Color:

Red with silver seed heads

Hardiness:

Very hardy native species to zone 2

Uses:

Rock gardens. native plantings

Care:

Unusual and attractive native. Nice clump former but not aggressive. Can be divided after flowering.

Native:

Yes

Comments:

Prairie Smoke is also known as Grandpa's Whiskers. Both names refer to the lovely seed heads of soft feathery plumes. These follow the rose - colored blooms of early to mid spring. This is a native prairie species that fares well in relatively dry soil and a sunny location.

Prairie Smoke is a short plant reaching only 6 to 12 inches. It forms clumps slowly but should be divided every third year or so to maintain vigor - this is best done after flowering. It can be placed in the front of wildflower gardens or borders. It also makes a nice complement to spring bulbs. Space new plants about a foot apart.