Silverweed Cinquefoil
potentilla anserina
Also known as: ["Anserine Cinquefoil","Silverweed"]
Overview
A creeping perennial herb with silvery-green leaves and bright yellow flowers, native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","disease resistant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Potentilla |
| Botanical Name: | Potentilla anserina |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in open, airy space
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter. Tolerates sandy or clay soils if amended for drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate. Remove up to one-third of the oldest stems to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates light shade in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight to prevent scorching. In hot climates, provide afternoon shade. Indoors, place near a south-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; avoid intense midday sun in summer; use sheer curtains to filter light indoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging; adjust frequency based on season and weather conditions.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is loose and crumbly; avoid compacted soil; amend heavy clay with organic matter.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cold down to 0°F (-18°C) but thrives in cooler conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost in winter; maintain moderate humidity in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding in late fall to allow dormancy; use a balanced formula for overall health.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division. Stem cuttings are the most common method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing but not under stress.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light. Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Optional but recommended to speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix, plastic bags or propagator for humidity.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity until roots form.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to a healthy bud or lateral branch. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems. Pruning also improves air circulation and reduces disease risk.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution (e.g., rubbing alcohol), gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune before new growth; remove dead/damaged stems; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (e.g., 2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. This allows for fresh soil and root pruning.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if needed; position plant at same depth; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone to ensure thorough saturation. Apply water slowly to allow absorption and avoid runoff. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent standing water.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth in spring and summer, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in fall and winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and structure. Incorporate perlite or sand to enhance drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth but do not typically harm the plant. Frost can damage foliage but is usually recoverable.
Solution: Mulch around the base to insulate roots. Protect from extreme frost by covering with a frost cloth or moving containers indoors.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering. Stress weakens the plant, making it susceptible to pests and diseases.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering frequency, and ensure good air circulation to reduce stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; follow package instructions.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPotentilla anserina is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines from this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicPotentilla anserina is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant is not listed among common toxic plants for canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicPotentilla anserina, commonly known as silverweed, is not considered toxic to humans. It has been used historically in traditional medicine and as a food source due to its edible roots and leaves.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Potentilla anserina edible?
A: Yes, the roots are edible and have been used in traditional cooking.
Q: Does Silverweed Cinquefoil attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers.
Q: How does Potentilla anserina grow?
A: It spreads via runners and prefers moist, sandy soils in full sun to partial shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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