Rough Cinquefoil
potentilla norvegica
Also known as: ["Norwegian Cinquefoil","Dove's-foot Cinquefoil"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with creeping stems and palmately lobed leaves, native to Europe and North America.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Potentilla |
| Botanical Name: | Potentilla norvegica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or border in a sunny area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loam with organic matter; tolerates poor soils but thrives with amendments.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- 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/day); tolerates partial shade but may flower less.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure adequate air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid direct sun on leaves during peak hours.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is loose and airy; test pH periodically; amend with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–8; tolerates cold winters; prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F); may struggle in extreme heat.
Monitor soil temperature; adjust watering with temperature changes; protect from frost.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly; avoid nitrogen-heavy formulas; water before and after feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pots within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems to healthy buds; thin out crowded areas; remove dead or diseased wood.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune at the right time; make clean cuts; dispose of pruned material.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; 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; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or aged manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf scorch in excessive heat; stunted growth or dieback in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Leaves may wilt or turn purple; growth slows; roots can freeze in poorly insulated soil.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect from harsh winds; move potted plants to sheltered locations.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf drop, or flower abortion; soil may dry out too quickly.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use reflective mulch to reduce soil temperature.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; apply at recommended dilution; water thoroughly after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing; discontinue in late summer to prepare for dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPotentilla norvegica is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not pose a significant risk to felines upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicPotentilla norvegica is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion or contact with this plant in canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicPotentilla norvegica, commonly known as dwarf cinquefoil, is not considered toxic to humans. It has been used historically in some traditional remedies, though its medicinal properties are not well-documented. The plant is generally safe for human contact and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Potentilla norvegica toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: How does Potentilla norvegica grow?
A: It spreads via creeping stems and can tolerate partial shade and dry conditions.
Q: Is Potentilla norvegica considered a weed?
A: Yes, it is often classified as a weed due to its invasive growth habit.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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