Tormentil
potentilla erecta
Also known as: ["Common Tormentil","Upright Cinquefoil"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and parts of Asia, known for its small yellow flowers and rhizomatous growth habit.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Potentilla |
| Botanical Name: | Potentilla erecta |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings or wildflower gardens
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter. Tolerates poor soils but thrives with added compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove up to one-third of old stems if overcrowded.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates light shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent scorching.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during peak heat; rotate pots for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid heavy clay mixes; mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–7. Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates frost but may struggle in extreme heat.
Protect from late spring frosts; avoid placing in drafty areas; ensure good air circulation in heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Fertilize sparingly; avoid feeding during dormancy; use organic options like compost tea.
Propagation
Methods
Division or root cuttings in late summer or early fall.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide clumps into sections with roots.
- Plant cuttings horizontally just below the soil surface.
- Keep moist and shaded.
Best Time: Late summer to early fall when plants are not in active bloom.
Environment
Cool, shaded environment with high humidity (e.g., misting or a propagation dome).
Medium
Well-draining soil mix with added sand or perlite.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; optional for root cuttings.
Timeline
Roots may develop within 4–8 weeks; new growth appears in spring.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, trowel, rooting hormone (optional), pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Divide every 3–4 years to rejuvenate plants; take cuttings from healthy, vigorous roots.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to the base or just above a healthy bud; thin out oldest stems to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged stems and encouraging bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune before new growth; remove dead/damaged stems; thin overcrowded areas.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; replant in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot only if the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container. Division is often preferred over repotting.
Checklist
Check for root-bound roots; use fresh soil; ensure good drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water until it drains from the bottom, but avoid pooling. Water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 1–2 weeks during active growth, reducing frequency in winter to once a month or less. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate sand or perlite for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Plants may become dormant or die back in severe cold, though roots often survive to regrow in spring.
Solution: Mulch heavily in fall to insulate roots; avoid overwatering before freezes; protect in containers by moving to sheltered spots.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may cease in intense heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Avoid high-nitrogen formulas. Reduce or stop feeding in late summer to avoid tender growth before winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPotentilla erecta is not considered toxic to cats. The roots have been used in traditional medicine and are not known to cause adverse effects in felines when ingested in small quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPotentilla erecta is not considered toxic to dogs. The roots have been used in traditional medicine and are not known to cause adverse effects in canines when ingested in small quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPotentilla erecta, commonly known as tormentil, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. The roots have been used in traditional medicine for their astringent properties, particularly in treating diarrhea and other gastrointestinal issues. There are no significant toxic effects reported from the consumption of this plant.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Potentilla erecta toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data to confirm toxicity to pets.
Q: How does Potentilla erecta grow?
A: It spreads via rhizomes and prefers well-drained soil in partial shade.
Q: Does Potentilla erecta attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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