Navel Cinquefoil
potentilla neumanniana
Also known as: ["Spring Cinquefoil","Dwarf Cinquefoil"]
Overview
A low-growing perennial herb with yellow flowers, native to Europe and parts of Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Potentilla |
| Botanical Name: | Potentilla neumanniana |
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":"–15–30°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.
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). Tolerates partial shade but may flower less.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade. 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; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; place near south-facing window.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid heavy clay; amend with organic matter for texture.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–7. Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C).
Protect from late spring frosts; avoid placing in drafty areas; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize once in spring; use a 10-10-10 formula; water before and after application.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with perlite for drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, peat-based mix, perlite.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to a healthy bud or lateral branch; remove crossing or crowded stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, bypass secateurs, gloves.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune before new growth; remove dead/diseased stems; shape the plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; trim any circling roots; place in a pot with drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Potentilla prefers slightly root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Check root boundness; 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, but avoid waterlogging. Water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during spring and summer, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in fall and winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or aged manure for fertility; mix in sand or perlite for drainage.
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
Plants may become dormant or suffer frost damage in temperatures below -30°F (-34°C) without protection.
Solution: Mulch heavily in fall; provide wind protection; avoid planting in low-lying frost pockets.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, reduced flowering, and wilting.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check soil fertility; apply fertilizer in spring; water thoroughly after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Avoid over-fertilizing, as Potentilla prefers lean soil.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPotentilla neumanniana is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects following ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPotentilla neumanniana is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects following ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPotentilla neumanniana is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with its consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Potentilla neumanniana attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Is this plant suitable for rock gardens?
A: Yes, its low-growing habit and drought tolerance make it ideal for rock gardens.
Q: How often should it be watered?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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