Geum macrophyllum
LARGE-LEAVED AVENS
Rosaceae

Large-leaved avens is a hairy perennial with flowering stems that can reach 1 m (although usually shorter). The stalked basal leaves are distinctly lyrate--pinnately lobed with the terminal segment much larger than the lower segments. The few stem leaves are stalkless and deeply 3 lobed. The flowers are yellow, saucer-shaped, and are borne singly or in a small cluster at the tip of the stem. The hypanthium has 5 erect to spreading lobes alternating with 5 smaller bracteoles. The flowers have 5 petals, many stamens, and many styles. Each style has a characteristic S-shaped bend near the tip which is preserved in the fruits (achenes). This bend helps the achenes stick to fur and fabric and be dispersed. Large-leaved avens grows abundantly in open forests and along trails at low to middle elevations.