Mountain Cinquefoil
potentilla pedata
Also known as: ["Mountain Cinquefoil","Five-finger"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub with palmately compound leaves and yellow flowers, native to mountainous regions.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Potentilla |
| Botanical Name: | Potentilla pedata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or mixed perennial beds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30 to 40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- 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; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
- 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 but may flower less.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent leaf scorch.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; rotate plant for even growth; use shade cloth in extreme heat.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid compacted soil; amend with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–7; prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F); tolerates cold but may struggle in prolonged heat.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Fertilize lightly; avoid over-fertilizing; apply before new growth emerges.
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.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), humid environment with indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid disturbing cuttings.
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 cutters, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune before new growth; remove dead wood; shape the plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out crowded roots; place in a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for growth and flowering.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; water before repotting; minimize root disturbance.
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 until it drains from the bottom, but avoid waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress; wilting in extreme conditions.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause leaf drop; frost can damage tender tissues.
Solution: Mulch around the base for insulation; protect from frost with a cover; avoid overwatering in cold weather.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf burn, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity with misting; water deeply to cool roots.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; follow label instructions; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; reduce feeding in late summer.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPotentilla pedata is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects associated with ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPotentilla pedata is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects associated with ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPotentilla pedata is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in moderate quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Potentilla pedata be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Potentilla pedata attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is Potentilla pedata toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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