Alchemilla Cinquefoil
potentilla alchemilloides
Also known as: ["Alchemilla Cinquefoil","Lady's Mantle Cinquefoil"]
Overview
A low-growing perennial with delicate, five-petaled yellow flowers and finely divided leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Potentilla |
| Botanical Name: | Potentilla alchemilloides |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or open meadows
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- 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 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 sun; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; ensure good air circulation.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and weather.
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 heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–7; prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F); tolerates frost.
Protect from extreme heat; mulch in winter; adjust watering with temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; 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 (65–75°F), humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 4–6 weeks; establish in new pot or ground within a season.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; keep soil consistently moist.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back old or crossing stems to the base; thin out crowded areas.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead/damaged growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, bypass cutters, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune before new growth; remove dead/diseased wood; 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 good drainage.
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 health.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
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; avoid wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, stunted growth, or premature leaf drop.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl or turn purple; growth slows but typically recovers in spring.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect from harsh winds; avoid overwatering.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; flowers may fade quickly.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain moisture.
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; reduce or stop in late summer/autumn.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPotentilla alchemilloides is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not considered toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicPotentilla alchemilloides is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not considered toxic
Humans
Non-toxicPotentilla alchemilloides is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption in typical amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not considered toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Potentilla alchemilloides toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: What are the common problems with Potentilla alchemilloides?
A: Common issues include yellow leaves, wilting, and leaf spots.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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