Alpine Cinquefoil

potentilla crantzii

Also known as: ["Alpine Five-finger","Cranz's Cinquefoil"]

Family: Rosaceae Genus: Potentilla Category: Flowers

Overview

A low-growing perennial herb native to alpine and subalpine regions of Europe, characterized by palmately compound leaves and small, yellow flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["cold hardy","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Rosales
Family: Rosaceae
Genus: Potentilla
Botanical Name: Potentilla crantzii

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or open meadows
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"4–7"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • 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 old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; ensure adequate light indoors if grown as a houseplant.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves (overwatering); stunted growth (poor soil fertility); root rot (poor drainage).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid placing in dark corners.

Watering

every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.

Soil

well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; avoid waterlogged conditions.

Temperature

Hardy in USDA zones 4–7; tolerates cold winters; prefers cool temperatures (50–70°F) during active growth.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize lightly during active growth; stop fertilizing in fall; water before and after applying fertilizer.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

High humidity (70–90%); warm temperatures (65–75°F); bright, indirect light.

Medium

Peat-based potting mix with perlite or sand for drainage.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth appears in 8–12 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut back stems to healthy buds; thin out crowded branches; remove dead or diseased wood.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, bypass secateurs, sterilizing solution.

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

Choose a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider) than the current one.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.

Checklist

Select 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; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; allow excess water to drain away.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without disturbing the soil surface.
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 well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf scorch in excessive heat; stunted growth or dieback in prolonged cold; bud drop in temperature fluctuations.

Cold Stress

Leaves may turn yellow or brown; growth slows or halts; plant may enter dormancy.

Solution: Mulch heavily in fall to insulate roots; protect from freezing winds; move potted plants to a sheltered location.

Hot Stress

Wilting despite moist soil; leaves may scorch or drop; reduced flowering.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use shade cloth in extreme heat.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Choose appropriate fertilizer; apply at recommended rate; water after application; monitor plant response.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, especially in late summer.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Potentilla crantzii may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, leading to reduced photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Potentilla crantzii can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, affecting the plant's ability to maintain turgor pressure and leading to tissue damage.

Leaf spots on Potentilla crantzii may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic capacity and potential defoliation if severe.

Rotting in Potentilla crantzii, particularly root or stem rot, is often caused by excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay of plant tissues and potential death of the plant.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Potentilla crantzii is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled by cats.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

Monitor your cat for any unusual behavior after exposure, but the plant is generally considered safe.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Potentilla crantzii is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled by dogs.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

Monitor your dog for any unusual behavior after exposure, but the plant is generally considered safe.
Humans
Non-toxic

Potentilla crantzii is not known to have significant toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption and handling.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

While non-toxic, it is always advisable to consume plants in moderation and consult a healthcare professional if any adverse reactions occur.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Potentilla crantzii suitable for rock gardens?

A: Yes, it thrives in rock gardens due to its preference for well-drained, rocky soils and alpine conditions.

Q: Does Potentilla crantzii require full sun?

A: Yes, it prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth and flowering.

Q: How often should Potentilla crantzii be watered?

A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings, as it is drought-tolerant.

Quick Reference
Family: Rosaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during growi
Suitable For: ["beginners","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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