Sulphur cinquefoil (Potentilla recta)

Also known as: Rough-fruited cinquefoil

Sulphur cinquefoil (Potentilla recta) is a tufted perennial herb that originally hails from the Mediterranean region. Since its introduction in the 19th century, it has spread widely, including across North America. In many areas, it is considered invasive due to its ability to rapidly form dense ground cover. Deer contribute to the dispersion of sulphur cinquefoil by consuming the plant and excreting the undigested seeds, which facilitates the plant's spread to new locations.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Sulphur cinquefoil

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

80 cm

Spread

30 cm to 45 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

1.5 cm

Flower Color

Yellow White

Images of Sulphur cinquefoil

Quickly Identify Sulphur cinquefoil

Compound leaves with 5-7 toothed finger-like leaflets

Silvery undersides of leaves

Yellow flowers with cup-like shape, 0.75 inches (2 cm) wide

Robust self-seeding capability in disturbed soils

Stems initially hairy, becoming smoother, light green to reddish-green, 2-3 feet (60-90 cm)

Scientific Classification of Sulphur cinquefoil

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Rosales

Family

Rose

Genus

Cinquefoils

Species

Sulphur cinquefoil

Planting and Growing of Sulphur cinquefoil

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full 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 Sulphur cinquefoil?

Potentilla recta prefers a well-drained soil environment. You should water until the top 2-3 inches of soil are moist but not soggy. The goal is to maintain a consistent level of moisture without waterlogging the soil, which can lead to root rot.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Sulphur cinquefoil? ›

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

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Sulphur cinquefoil? ›

How to save an overwatered Sulphur cinquefoil? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Sulphur cinquefoil?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Potentilla recta ideally benefits from full sun exposure for 6 to 8 hours daily. This enables full growth potential, dense foliage, and abundant flowering.

What kind of light does Potentilla recta prefer? ›

How can you achieve ideal conditions for this plant? ›

What benefits does ideal lighting offer this plant? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Sulphur cinquefoil?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for Potentilla recta is between 60°F and 75°F. This range provides optimal conditions for photosynthesis, nutrient absorption, and overall plant health. Maintaining these temperatures will ensure the plant's energy resources are directed towards growth and reproduction rather than survival.

What Soil is Best for Sulphur cinquefoil?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Potentilla recta thrives in well-drained soils, preventing waterlogging which can lead to root rot. This requirement ensures healthy root systems capable of supporting robust plant growth. A moderately fertile soil enriched with organic matter promotes vigorous growth. The addition of compost or well-rotted manure can provide essential nutrients that enhance flowering and foliage quality. This plant benefits from warm soils that absorb sunlight efficiently. Such conditions stimulate metabolic processes, leading to improved vigor and flowering intensity.

How to Fertilize Sulphur cinquefoil?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Potentilla recta, the amount of fertilizer largely depends on its growth stage and soil conditions. Typically, a diluted liquid fertilizer should be applied at half the recommended strength to prevent nutrient burn, while slow-release granules should be distributed according to the package instructions but generally not exceeding 1 tablespoon per square foot.

How to Prune Sulphur cinquefoil?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

To prolong blooming, regularly remove spent flowers by pinching them off with your fingers or using scissors. This encourages the plant to produce more blooms instead of focusing energy on seed production. To maintain a neat appearance, trim back any long or unruly stems during the growing season. This is best done in spring or early summer, ensuring the plant retains its compact form. At the end of the flowering season, cut back the entire plant to about a third of its height. This helps to remove any diseased or dead material and prepares the plant for the winter months.

How to Propagate Sulphur cinquefoil plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring, Late spring

Fill a seed tray with a light potting mix, plant the seeds at a shallow depth, and water gently. The seeds require a temperature of around 65-75°F to germinate. Maintain consistent moisture and light.

Select a healthy stem from the parent plant and use sterilized pruning shears to cut a 4-6 inch section. Remove the lower leaves, dip the cut end in rooting hormone, and plant it in a potting mix.

Lift the mature plant from the soil during early spring and divide the root clump into smaller sections, ensuring each division has a healthy shoot and root system. Replant immediately to reduce stress.

How to Repot Sulphur cinquefoil plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Repotting Potentilla recta is best determined by careful observation of the plant's roots and growth pattern. If you notice roots growing out of the drainage holes or the plant seems to be outgrowing its pot, it's time to consider repotting. Additionally, if the growth appears stunted or the soil depletes nutrients quickly, these are clear signs that repotting is needed.

Selecting the right pot for Potentilla recta is crucial for its healthy growth. Opt for a pot that is 1-2 inches larger than the current pot to provide ample room for root expansion. The material of the pot should allow for good drainage and aeration; terracotta or ceramic pots are excellent choices. This ensures that excess moisture can escape and prevents root rot.

The choice of soil can make a significant difference in the health of Potentilla recta. A well-drained loamy soil enriched with organic matter is ideal. This type of soil holds moisture while permitting free drainage, providing both the stability and hydration the plant roots require. Opt for a blend that includes peat, compost, and small rocks to enhance drainage.