Rough cinquefoil (Potentilla norvegica)

Also known as: Ternate-leaved cinquefoil

Rough cinquefoil (Potentilla norvegica) is a flowering plant found widely across North America. The genus name "Potentilla" derives from the Latin term "potens," signifying "powerful," likely due to its medicinal qualities. The species name "norvegica" indicates its association with settlers who introduced the plant to North America.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Rough cinquefoil

Lifespan

Annual, Biennial, Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

5 cm to 90 cm

Spread

15 cm to 30 cm

Leaf Color

Green Blue

Flower Size

2 mm to 4 mm

Flower Color

Yellow

Images of Rough cinquefoil

Quickly Identify Rough cinquefoil

Identification can be done by looking for its trifoliate leaves and yellow, five-petaled flowers. The plant has a tooth-edged margin on the leaves and the foliage and stems are hairy.

Scientific Classification of Rough cinquefoil

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Rosales

Family

Rose

Genus

Cinquefoils

Species

Rough cinquefoil

Planting and Growing of Rough cinquefoil

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Rough cinquefoil?

When watering Potentilla norvegica, aim to give it around 250 ml per session. This amount ensures the soil stays moist but not waterlogged, promoting healthy root development. It's important to let the top inch of the soil dry between waterings to avoid damping off.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Rough cinquefoil? ›

What should I do if my Rough cinquefoil is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Rough cinquefoil? ›

How to save an overwatered Rough cinquefoil? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Rough cinquefoil?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full sun

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours

Potentilla norvegica flourishes in partial sun to full sun environments. Proper light exposure facilitates optimal photosynthesis, ensuring dense foliage and abundant flowering.

What is the best sunlight exposure? ›

How do I ensure it gets optimal sunlight? ›

Why is adequate sunlight important? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Rough cinquefoil?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

Potentilla norvegica thrives best in temperatures between 60 and 75°F. These conditions mimic its natural habitat, allowing optimal growth and development. Such temperatures facilitate efficient photosynthesis and overall plant health.

What Soil is Best for Rough cinquefoil?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Loam, Clay soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Potentilla norvegica thrives in soils with good drainage to prevent root rot, ensuring the roots have ample oxygen and reducing disease risk. A moderately fertile soil enhances growth by providing essential nutrients, resulting in lush foliage and better flowering. Maintaining adequate soil moisture helps prevent wilting during dry spells, promoting consistent growth and vigor.

How to Fertilize Rough cinquefoil?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Potentilla norvegica, it is essential to use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Typically, a 10-10-10 NPK fertilizer is ideal. Apply liquid fertilizers at a concentration of 1 tablespoon per gallon of water, ensuring even distribution over the soil. For slow-release fertilizers, follow the manufacturer's guidelines, usually about 1 to 2 pounds per 100 square feet.

How to Prune Rough cinquefoil?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

To prune Potentilla norvegica effectively, start by identifying and removing any dead or damaged stems. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts near the base of the plant. Trim any overly long branches to maintain a compact shape, cutting just above a leaf node to promote fuller growth. Regular trimming encourages vigorous flowering and keeps the plant tidy and healthy.

How to Propagate Rough cinquefoil plant?

Propagate Time: Spring,Late spring,Early spring,Summer

Harvest mature seeds from the plant by waiting until they turn a darker color, indicating readiness. Clean them of any debris to prevent mold during the storage or germination process.

Select healthy stems for cuttings, cut below a node, and remove any leaves from the lower part. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone powder to encourage root development.

Carefully dig up the mature plant, taking caution not to damage the root system. Gently separate the root clumps with your hands or a knife and replant them individually.

How to Repot Rough cinquefoil plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Potentilla norvegica shows signs of needing repotting when you notice roots growing out of the drainage holes or the soil drying out faster than usual. Another signal is if the plant appears stunted or stops growing. Spring or early summer is the best time to repot, as the plant is in its active growth phase.

Select a pot that is slightly larger, with good drainage. This prevents waterlogging and allows root expansion. A clay pot can be beneficial as it absorbs moisture, preventing oversaturation of the soil. Ensure the pot matches your plant’s growing habits and aesthetic needs.

Opt for a well-draining loamy soil mix that retains moisture but doesn't compact around the roots. A mix with organic matter and sand helps in nutrient retention and aeration, promoting healthy root development and preventing root rot in Potentilla norvegica.