Prairie Smoke Avens

Prairie smoke is a compact North American prairie perennial whose nodding pink to maroon flowers give way to soft, feathery seedheads. The seed plumes remain ornamental after flowering and make this small plant especially useful at the front of a sunny bed. [University of Wisconsin–Madison Extension](https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/prairie-smoke-geum-triflorum/) describes its 6–10 inch foliage mound, taller flowering stems, and hardiness in zones 3a–7b. ## Seasonal Interest Flowers open in late spring and early summer, then their styles lengthen into silvery-pink plumes that resemble smoke. The foliage is finely divided and may turn red, purple, or orange in fall and winter. Heat can make the leaves look worn in midsummer; fresh growth often returns later in the season. ## Placement and Care Use prairie smoke at a path edge, in a rock garden, or in the front of a border where taller neighbors will not hide it. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil, including sandy or gravelly sites. Water while new plants establish; established plants tolerate moderate dry spells, but avoid persistently wet winter soil. Its rhizomes spread gradually, so give the clump room without expecting rapid ground cover. ## Maintenance Leave the seedheads for extended interest or cut them for dried arrangements. Divide large garden clumps every few years in early spring, after flowering, or in fall.