Prairie Smoke (Geum triflorum), also known as Old Man’s Whiskers or Three-Flowered Avens, is a charming native perennial prized for its ethereal, wispy seed heads and delicate nodding blooms. A true prairie gem, this low-growing plant brings architectural interest and early-season color to rock gardens, borders, and naturalized landscapes. In Southeast Wisconsin, its spring performance and wildlife value make it a must-have for gardeners seeking both beauty and ecological benefit.
Key Characteristics
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Blooming Period
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Flowers appear in mid-to-late spring (May–June).
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Each stem bears three pendulous, bell-shaped blossoms that transition from rosy pink buds to soft lavender-pink petals.
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Foliage & Habit
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Basal clump of finely cut, fern-like leaves (4–6″ tall).
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Flower stalks rise 8–12″ above the foliage, creating a veil of blooms.
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After flowering, the reflexed sepals and elongated styles form “smoke-like” plumes up to 8″ long.
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Size & Spread
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Mature spread: 12–18″.
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Clump-forming but slowly self-sows to fill in gaps.
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Cultural Requirements
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Light
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Thrives in full sun to part shade.
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In hotter sites, provide afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch.
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Soil
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Prefers well-drained, gritty or sandy soil.
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Tolerates average garden soil but does not like heavy clay or prolonged wetness.
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Incorporate organic matter or coarse sand for improved drainage.
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Water
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Water regularly during establishment.
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Once settled, Prairie Smoke is drought-tolerant and seldom needs supplemental irrigation.
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Hardiness
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USDA Zones 3–7.
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Foliage dies back in winter; emerges vigorously in spring.
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Landscape Uses & Companion Plants
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Rock Gardens & Alpine Beds
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Perfect for rock crevices and gravel gardens where water drains freely.
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Pair with low-growing sedums, creeping thyme, and other alpine treasures.
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Pollinator & Native Gardens
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Early-season nectar source for bees, including bumblebees and solitary bees.
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Combine with native species such as Leadplant (Amorpha canescens), Wild Lupine (Lupinus perennis), and Pasque Flower (Pulsatilla patens).
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Mixed Borders & Edging
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Use along the front of borders to soften edges with its lacy foliage and airy seed heads.
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Neighbors nicely with Tall Garden Phlox (Phlox paniculata) and Bearded Iris (Iris germanica).
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Seasonal Care & Maintenance
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Division & Propagation
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Divide every 3–4 years in early spring before new growth begins.
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Lift entire clumps, separate offsets, and replant at the same depth.
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Deadheading & Seed Management
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Leave spent blooms if you want naturalized seedlings; remove seed heads for a tidier look.
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Hand-collect seed for sowing in fall or share with fellow gardeners.
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Fertilization
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Light feeder: apply a thin layer of compost in spring.
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Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can promote floppy growth.
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Pest & Disease
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Generally pest-free and deer-resistant.
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Watch for slugs in moist conditions; use organic slug controls if needed.
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Winter Protection
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In colder sites, a light mulch over the crown helps prevent heaving.
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Remove mulch in spring as shoots emerge.
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Ecological & Garden Benefits
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Wildlife Magnet: Early blooms provide vital forage for emerging pollinators, while the unique seed plumes offer interest and structure.
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Low-Maintenance: Drought-tolerant once established and resistant to most pests and diseases.
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Naturalizing: Slow self-seeder that fills in open areas, creating a graceful meadow effect over time.
Conclusion & Availability
Prairie Smoke (Geum triflorum) is an enchanting addition to any Southeast Wisconsin garden, offering spring blooms, architectural seed heads, and wildlife value. Its adaptability to well-drained sites and minimal care requirements make it ideal for rock gardens, native plantings, and mixed borders alike.