Geum chiloense 'Lady Stratheden' (Goldball) –

Geum chiloense 'Lady Stratheden', also known as Goldball, is a popular perennial that has been beloved by gardeners for decades for its striking golden-yellow flowers, abundant blooms, and easy care. This graceful avens belongs to the rose family (Rosaceae) and is a real eye-catcher in herbaceous borders, cottage gardens, prairie gardens, and modern ornamental borders.

With its compact growth habit, abundance of large double flowers, and long flowering period, Geum 'Lady Stratheden' is an ideal choice for gardeners who want to add color, structure, and natural charm to their plantings.

Characteristics and growth habit

Geum chiloense 'Lady Stratheden' is a hardy, perennial plant that typically reaches a height of 40 to 60 cm. It forms a compact clump of fresh green, slightly hairy leaves from which numerous sturdy flower stems emerge in late spring.

The flowers are a striking golden yellow, semi-double to fully double, and measure 4 to 5 cm across. This deep golden color creates a warm and sunny ambiance in the garden. Flowering usually runs from May to August, with occasional rebloom later in the summer when the plant is pruned back.

Key Features:

• Latin name: Geum chiloense 'Lady Stratheden'

• Dutch name: Avens

• Height: 40–60 cm

• Flowering period: May – August

• Flower color: Golden yellow

• Location: Sun to partial shade

• Soil: Humus-rich, well-drained

Location and care

Geum 'Lady Stratheden' thrives in a location with full sun to light partial shade. It flowers most profusely in full sun, but even in light shade, the plant remains vigorous and healthy.

The soil should be nutrient-rich, slightly moist, and well-drained. Overly wet or poorly draining soil is less tolerated, especially in winter. An annual mulch of compost helps improve soil structure and supports strong growth.

Maintenance tips:

• Regularly removing flowers (deadheading) encourages longer and more profuse flowering.

• Pruning after the first flowering period often induces a second wave of flowering.

• Division every 3–4 years keeps the plant vital and prevents the clump from falling open.

• Winter hardy, but a light layer of mulch will protect against severe frost.

Applications in the garden

Geum chiloense 'Lady Stratheden' is versatile. Its warm flowers and fresh foliage contrast beautifully with countless other perennials. It's perfect for:

• Cottage gardens, along with geraniums, salvia, campanula and alchemilla

• Prairie gardens, combined with ornamental grasses and echinacea

• Colorful perennial borders

• Natural and informal plantings

The bright yellow flowers also attract bees, bumblebees and other beneficial insects, making this plant ideal for a biodiverse garden.

Why choose Geum chiloense 'Lady Stratheden'?

This species is loved for:

• The exceptionally long and rich flowering

• The striking, golden-yellow flower color

• The reliable and easy care

• The strong and hardy growth

• The versatile applicability in numerous garden styles

• The contribution to nature-friendly gardens