Seven-leaf Cinquefoil
potentilla heptaphylla
Also known as: ["Seven-leaf Cinquefoil","Potentilla heptaphylla"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub with palmately compound leaves and bright yellow flowers, native to Europe and Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","disease resistant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Potentilla |
| Botanical Name: | Potentilla heptaphylla |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or as a specimen shrub in mixed beds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–25 to 30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to moderate-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loam with organic matter; tolerates poor soils but thrives with added compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- 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); tolerates partial shade but may flower less.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to full sun gradually over 1–2 weeks; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure adequate light indoors if grown as a container plant.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sun; supplement with grow lights if indoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, ensure good drainage, and avoid waterlogging roots.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good aeration; test pH if issues arise.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–7; tolerates temperatures from -30°F to 90°F (-34°C to 32°C); prefers cool to moderate temperatures.
Protect from late spring frosts; avoid placing near heat sources; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize lightly; avoid over-fertilization; water before and after applying fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings; division of established clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer for cuttings; early spring for division.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F/18–24°C), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for cuttings; well-draining soil for division.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for cuttings.
Timeline
Cuttings root in 4–8 weeks; division establishes in 1–2 growing seasons.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back old or crowded stems to the base; thin out weak or crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage flowering, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Hand pruners, loppers (for thicker stems), pruning saw (for large branches).
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune before bud break; remove dead/diseased wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; inspect roots; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone, until water penetrates several inches deep. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot. Water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth; reduce frequency in winter to every 2–3 weeks, allowing soil to dry partially between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch (brown edges) in excessive heat; stunted growth or dieback in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Leaves may wilt or turn yellow; growth slows or halts; roots can freeze in poorly insulated soil.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; move container plants to a sheltered location; avoid planting in frost pockets.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf drop, or flower abortion; soil dries out quickly; increased susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use reflective mulch to keep roots cool.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; water before and after; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; discontinue in late summer to avoid tender growth.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPotentilla heptaphylla is not considered toxic to cats. It does not pose a risk of poisoning or adverse effects when ingested or touched.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicPotentilla heptaphylla is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicPotentilla heptaphylla is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has no known adverse physiological effects when handled or ingested in typical amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Potentilla heptaphylla be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Potentilla heptaphylla attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers.
Q: Is Potentilla heptaphylla 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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