Geum Firestarter

Bring a real burst of heat to the border with Geum ‘Firestarter’ — a compact, clump-forming perennial that flowers for months with ruffled, semi-double blooms held on wiry stems above a tidy mound of rich green foliage. The colour is often described as fiery red to scarlet red, and in some conditions can show warm orange-red tones too — a glowing, “lit from within” look that’s perfect for lifting borders from late spring right through to early autumn.

It’s a brilliant choice for pollinator-friendly planting, great near the front of a sunny border, and also makes a cheerful cut flower. ‘Firestarter’ is valued for its exceptionally long flowering season (especially with regular deadheading), and once established it’s an easy, hardworking plant that returns bigger and better each year.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant bare roots in autumn through to early spring while dormant, avoiding periods when the ground is frozen or waterlogged.

Where to Plant:
Choose a sunny position (or light shade) with moist but well-drained soil. Geums flower best when the soil doesn’t completely dry out in summer and they dislike sitting wet in winter. Ideal for front-of-border planting, cottage gardens, containers, and wildlife-friendly borders.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant so the crown sits level with the soil surface (do not bury too deeply).
• Spacing: Space 30–40 cm (12–16 inches) apart to allow airflow and room to bulk up.
• Soil Prep: Mix in garden compost to help retain moisture and aid establishment, especially in sandy soils.

Watering:
Water well after planting. Keep the soil evenly moist while establishing. Once settled, water during prolonged dry spells to support flowering.

Aftercare Tips:

• Deadhead regularly to encourage continuous flowering.
• Trim back tired stems after flowering to keep the plant neat and promote fresh growth.
• Divide clumps every 3–4 years to maintain vigour and flowering performance.

Top Tip:
For the longest display, pick off spent blooms little and often—Geum ‘Firestarter’ can flower for many months with deadheading. It looks fantastic with Nepeta, Salvia, Alchemilla and ornamental grasses for a lively, pollinator-friendly mix.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:
May - July (often repeats with deadheading)

Height:
18–24" (45–60cm)

Position:
Sun / Partial shade

Hardy Perennial