- Wildlife
- Wildflowers
- Water Avens
Philip Precey
About
Water Avens is a locally common plant that inhabits damp places such as riversides, wet woodlands and damp meadows. A close relative of the Wood Avens, its nodding, bell-shaped flowers are multi-coloured and, perhaps, a shade prettier. They appear from May to September and are followed by feathery seed heads.
How to identify
The cup-shaped flowers of Water Avens have dark red sepals and orangey-pink petals surrounding a cluster of yellow stamens; they hang delicately on long, purple stems. The round leaves are usually found at the base of the stem.
Where to find it
Grows mainly in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Locally common in parts of England, but rarer in the south.
Habitats
When to find it
- May
- June
- July
- August
- September
How can people help
Human activity, including the drainage of land for agriculture and development, has resulted in the disappearance of many of the UK's wetlands. The Wildlife Trusts are working closely with planners, developers and farmers to ensure our wetlands are protected. You can help too: add native plants and flowers like Water Avens to the edge of a wildlife-friendly pond and provide nectar for insects and shelter for amphibians. In partnership with the RHS, The Wildlife Trusts' Wild About Gardens initiative can help you plan your wildlife garden.