Shrubby Cinquefoil, Potentilla fruticosa

Shrubby Cinquefoil

Potentilla fruticosa

Benefits: Pollinator Benefit Graphic
Sun Shade: Plant Light Requirements Graphic
Bloom Time: Summer
Hardiness Zones: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
Soil Conditions: Loam
Soil Moisture: Medium, Moist
Color: Yellow
Fragrance: No
Height: 2-4 feet
Spacing: 3-5 feet

 Description
Shrubby Cinquefoil, Potentila fruticosa, is a vigorous, floriferous, many-branched, compact, deciduous shrub. It typically grows in a mound to 2-4 feet tall on branches clad with compound-pinnate, medium to blue-green leaves. Saucer-shaped, 5-petaled, yellow flowers appear over a long summer bloom period. The blooming period occurs during the summer and early fall; a small colony of shrubs may remain in bloom for 2-3 months. Each flower is replaced by a capsule that contains several hairy seeds. Mature capsules become dark brown and persist into the winter. The root system consists of a woody taproot.

Habitats include fens, calcareous seeps, the upper portion of beaches and low sandy areas along Lake Michigan, sandy banks of inter-dunal ponds, moist dolomite prairies, and hill prairies. The last habitat is highly atypical. Shrubby Cinquefoil is typically found in calcareous wetlands near Lake Michigan. It rarely naturalizes in disturbed areas.

Easily grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun. Prefers evenly moist soils. Best flowering occurs in full sun, but plants tolerate part shade. Established plants grow well in a wide range of conditions and have good drought tolerance. Plants have excellent winter hardiness and perform best in cool northern summer climates.

 Plant Notes and Herbal Uses
  Long-blooming shrub for sunny parts of the landscape.
  The pH of the soil should be slightly acid to alkaline.
  Prune as needed in late winter.
 Further Information

 Wisconsin Fruit Trees
 Wisconsin Edible Berry Shrubs
 Widsconsin Edible Plants-Eat On The Wild Side
 8 Dandelion Recipes
 Wisconsin Native Plant Nurseries

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