Slender Cinquefoil
potentilla supina
Also known as: ["Slender Five-finger","Lesser Five-finger"]
Overview
A low-growing, herbaceous perennial with finely divided leaves and small, yellow flowers. It is often found in disturbed soils and open areas.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Potentilla |
| Botanical Name: | Potentilla supina |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or border in open, sunny area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining; avoid heavy, water-retentive soils.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates poor soils but thrives with compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very 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 old stems to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but blooms best in direct sunlight.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure adequate airflow to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
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 growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid waterlogged soil; amend with organic matter; test pH if issues arise.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–7; tolerates temperatures from -30°C to 30°C; prefers cool nights for optimal flowering.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from late spring frosts; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Fertilize sparingly; avoid fertilizing in winter; water before and after feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings root easily in warm conditions.
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, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can root in water initially.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to a healthy bud or lateral branch; remove crossing or crowded stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, bypass cutters, gloves.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune at the right time; remove dead/diseased wood; shape the plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–5 cm (1–2 inches) in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; replant in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; 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 morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; allow excess water to drain away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is 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
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn yellow or brown; growth slows; frost can damage tender tissues.
Solution: Mulch heavily in fall; protect from frost with row covers; avoid planting in low-lying frost pockets.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf drop, or flower abortion; soil dries out quickly.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use reflective mulch to keep roots cool.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; reduce feeding in late summer to prepare for dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPotentilla supina is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported cases of adverse effects following ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPotentilla supina is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of adverse effects following ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPotentilla supina is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption, though it is not commonly used as a food source.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Potentilla supina toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How does Potentilla supina grow?
A: It is a low-growing perennial that spreads via runners and thrives in disturbed soils.
Q: Does Potentilla supina attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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