Strawberry Cinquefoil
potentilla sterilis
Also known as: ["Woodland Cinquefoil","False Strawberry"]
Overview
A low-growing perennial herb with creeping stems and palmate leaves, producing small white flowers and non-edible fruits resembling strawberries.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Potentilla |
| Botanical Name: | Potentilla sterilis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden border or rock garden in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter like compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually, after flowering in late spring/early summer.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight in spring/summer, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun if moving from shade. Protect from intense midday sun to prevent scorching. Outdoor placement is ideal, but ensure filtered light indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sun; avoid placing near east/west-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-drained, fertile loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; test soil pH annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, 50–75°F (10–24°C). Tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged exposure below 28°F (-2°C).
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; stop feeding in late summer to prepare for dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division in spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity with a propagator or plastic cover.
Best Time: Early spring, just as new growth begins.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome, misting 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
Selective thinning of stems; cut back to a healthy bud or lateral branch.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth. Focus on post-flowering pruning to avoid reducing blooms.
Tools
Pruning shears, bypass secateurs, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead/damaged stems; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure drainage holes are clear.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Pot-bound plants may flower less.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; check root health; ensure proper drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues. Allow excess water to drain away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in autumn and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and aerated.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in excessive heat; stunted growth or browning edges in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback, especially if roots are not insulated.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; move potted plants to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold weather.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to water stress.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use evaporative cooling methods like misting (avoid foliage if fungal issues are present).
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply at half strength; fertilize only during active growth.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season (spring/summer). Avoid fertilizing in autumn/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPotentilla sterilis is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not contain any known substances that would cause adverse effects in felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPotentilla sterilis is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain any known substances that would cause adverse effects in canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPotentilla sterilis is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic compounds or physiological effects associated with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Potentilla sterilis edible?
A: The leaves and flowers are non-toxic but not typically consumed; the fruit resembles a strawberry but is not edible.
Q: Does Potentilla sterilis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with its flowers.
Q: How much sunlight does Potentilla sterilis need?
A: It thrives in partial shade to full shade, making it suitable for woodland gardens.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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