Braune's Cinquefoil
potentilla brauneana
Also known as: []
Overview
A low-growing perennial herb native to alpine regions, characterized by its palmately compound leaves and small, yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["cold hardy","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Potentilla |
| Botanical Name: | Potentilla brauneana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or open woodland edges
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30 to 40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loam 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 growth to rejuvenate the plant.
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; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
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 soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid compacted soil; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–7; prefers cool summers and cold winters; ideal range 50–75°F (10–24°C).
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly to avoid excessive growth; stop feeding in late summer to prepare for dormancy; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
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.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back leggy stems to encourage branching; remove dead or damaged wood; shape as desired.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil.
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 until it drains from the bottom; avoid waterlogging by allowing excess to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl or turn brown; growth slows; roots can freeze in poorly insulated pots.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; move potted plants to sheltered locations; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; flowers may fade quickly; growth may cease.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; cease in dormancy.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPotentilla brauneana is not known to be toxic to cats. No toxic compounds have been identified in this species that would pose a risk to felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPotentilla brauneana 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 brauneana is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in moderate quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Potentilla brauneana suitable for rock gardens?
A: Yes, it thrives in rock gardens due to its alpine origins and preference for well-drained soil.
Q: How often should Potentilla brauneana be watered?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings, as it is drought-tolerant.
Q: Does Potentilla brauneana attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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