Creeping Cinquefoil

(Potentilla flagellaris)

Creeping Cinquefoil (Potentilla flagellaris)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 13" - 26"
High Temp. 71°F - 81°F
Low Temp. -21°F - 6°F

Summary

Potentilla flagellaris, commonly known as Creeping Cinquefoil or Creeping Potentilla, is a deciduous perennial herb that is native to a variety of habitats including open woodlands, grasslands, and alpine regions across the Northern Hemisphere. It exhibits a moderate growth rate and typically reaches a height of 0.3-0.5 feet (0.09-0.2 meters) with a spreading habit of 1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters). The plant forms a low mat of strawberry-like leaves and produces bright yellow, five-petaled flowers from late spring to midsummer, which are modest in size but can be quite numerous, creating a showy display.

Creeping Cinquefoil is valued for its ability to cover ground quickly, making it an excellent choice for erosion control, as a ground cover in borders, or in rock gardens. Its ability to thrive in a range of soil types, from clay to sandy loam, and its preference for medium to fast-draining soils make it versatile in cultivation. While it prefers full sun or part shade, it is adaptable to various light conditions. There are no major disease problems associated with this plant, but it can spread aggressively in favorable conditions, which should be considered when planting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.3-0.5 feet
  • Width: 1-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Border Plant, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

Open woodlands, grasslands, and alpine regions across the Northern Hemisphere

Other Names

Common Names: Creeping Potentilla

Scientific Names: Potentilla flagellaris, Potentilla flagellaris, Potentilla flagellaris, Potentilla flagellaris var. oblongifolia, Potentilla nemoralis, Potentilla reptans, Potentilla reptans var. angustiloba, Tormentilla flagellaris

GBIF Accepted Name: Potentilla flagellaris