Grey Cinquefoil
potentilla cinerea
Also known as: ["Grey Cinquefoil","Silver Cinquefoil"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to Europe, characterized by its grey-green foliage and yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Potentilla |
| Botanical Name: | Potentilla cinerea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in open, sunny area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- 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 stems to rejuvenate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; ensure good air circulation to prevent scorching.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Morning sun is ideal; rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains in intense light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use gritty mix; avoid heavy clay; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–8; prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates winter cold to -30°F (-34°C).
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; apply to moist soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; softwood cuttings root easily in summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is vigorous.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%); warm temperatures (65–75°F); partial shade.
Medium
Perlite and peat mix; well-draining soil with some organic matter.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 4–6 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back old stems to basal growth; thin crowded branches; shape lightly after flowering.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage flowering, and remove dead/diseased wood.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots; add fresh soil; water lightly; place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; 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; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
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
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; stunted growth or dieback in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Leaves may wilt or turn yellow; growth slows; roots can freeze in poorly insulated soil.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect from harsh winds; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf drop, or flower abortion; soil dries out quickly.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use reflective mulch to reduce heat absorption.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing; discontinue in late summer.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPotentilla cinerea is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects in felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPotentilla cinerea is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects in canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPotentilla cinerea is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption and handling.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Potentilla cinerea toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: How often should Potentilla cinerea be watered?
A: It is drought-tolerant and requires moderate watering, especially during dry periods.
Q: Does Potentilla cinerea attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds, making it a good choice for wildlife gardens.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
