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.