Orange Cinquefoil
potentilla atrosanguinea
Also known as: ["Orange Five-finger","Orange Five-finger Cinquefoil"]
Overview
A deciduous perennial herb with bright orange-red flowers and finely divided leaves, native to mountainous regions.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Potentilla |
| Botanical Name: | Potentilla atrosanguinea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or containers in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°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 added organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: 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 of direct sunlight daily) is ideal, though partial shade in hot climates can prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; provide afternoon shade in hot regions; ensure proper ventilation if grown indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, and avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid overwatering; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights but avoids extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; maintain moderate humidity in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly after pruning; stop feeding in fall to prepare for dormancy; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings are the most reliable method; division of established clumps can also be done.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings, remove lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone, plant in medium, keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; or use a cactus/succulent potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting bottle, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to a healthy bud or lateral branch; thin out crowded areas to improve light penetration.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems to improve air circulation.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, clean scissors, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune at the right time, make clean cuts, remove dead/diseased wood, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare fresh soil mix, inspect roots, water after repotting, place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid wetting leaves, adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution without wetting foliage. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow leaves to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days in spring/summer, reducing to every 2–3 weeks in fall/winter. Adjust based on rainfall and temperature.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), wilting, bud drop, or stunted growth indicate temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf drop or dormancy; frost can damage or kill the plant.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth or mulch; move containers indoors; avoid planting in frost-prone areas.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat leads to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering; may cease growth in extreme conditions.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun, increase watering, use mulch to retain moisture, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer, apply at correct dilution, fertilize during active growth, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPotentilla atrosanguinea is not known to be toxic to cats. No adverse effects have been reported following ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPotentilla atrosanguinea is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPotentilla atrosanguinea 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 atrosanguinea be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. It is drought-tolerant once established.
Q: Does Potentilla atrosanguinea attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: Is Potentilla atrosanguinea toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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