Shrubby Cinquefoil
dasiphora fruticosa
Also known as: ["Potentilla fruticosa","Shrubby Cinquefoil"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub known for its abundant yellow flowers and hardy nature.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","disease resistant","deer resistant","cold hardy","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Dasiphora |
| Botanical Name: | Dasiphora fruticosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or open sunny areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–40–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"2–7"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering; light pruning can be done in late winter if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun promotes flowering; partial shade can be used in extreme heat; rotate plants for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Ensure good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with compost if needed.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 2–7; tolerates temperatures from -40°F to 90°F; prefers cool nights during flowering.
Mulch to protect roots in winter; water deeply before a freeze; avoid fertilizing in extreme heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize once in spring; use a balanced formula; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent weak growth.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; softwood cuttings in summer are most successful.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F), humid environment with indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; plants may take a full season to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back leggy stems to a healthy bud; remove dead or crossing branches; shape as desired.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth; best done after flowering.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), gloves.
Checklist
Prune after flowering; sterilize tools; remove dead wood; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Not typically needed unless grown in containers; repot every 2–3 years to refresh soil and check root health.
Checklist
Repot in spring; use fresh soil; check roots; increase pot size slightly; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; allow drainage; avoid overhead watering; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; apply until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage to reduce disease risk; water early in the morning for optimal absorption.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add sand or perlite for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf scorch in excessive heat; stunted growth or delayed flowering in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Plants may become dormant but rarely suffer permanent damage; cold hardy to -40°F.
Solution: No special protection needed in most climates; mulch around the base in colder regions to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt or scorch in prolonged heat; flowering may be reduced.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; increase watering frequency; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Fertilize in spring; use balanced formula; avoid late-season feeding; follow package instructions.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; discontinue fertilizing in late summer to prepare for dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDasiphora fruticosa is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested in small amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicDasiphora fruticosa is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested in small amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicDasiphora fruticosa is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in moderate quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Dasiphora fruticosa?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Once established, it is drought tolerant.
Q: Does Shrubby Cinquefoil attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: Is Dasiphora fruticosa toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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