This genus consists of over 50 species. Geums bear flowers in yellow, orange and red atop stalks 1½-2 feet tall above the foliage. The bloom in mid-spring to mid-summer and may re-bloom a little until frost.

The common name, "avens" probably comes from the old French word, avence or Latin word, avancia. Both words are derived from the green word for an "antidote" since plants of this genus were supposed to ward off evil spirits.