Overview
Potentilla argentea is a bushy herbaceous perennial in the genus Potentilla, part of the Rosaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.1-0.5 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 1-2 years. Potentilla argentea grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is attractive to pollinators. Suggested uses include wildflower meadow and wildlife gardens.
About
Potentilla argentea is a perennial plant characterized by its slender, upright or spreading stems that reach approximately 30 cm in height. Its palmate leaves consist of five narrow leaflets, which are covered in a soft white fuzz on their undersides. During late spring and into summer, this species produces clusters of small, five-petaled flowers in a shade of sulphur-yellow.
About the genus
Potentilla encompasses herbaceous perennials, deciduous shrubs, and annuals. Their foliage is either palmately or pinnately divided, and they produce solitary or clustered flowers that are saucer-shaped with five petals, blooming over an extended season.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Potentilla
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Potentilla argentea size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 1-2 years
- Suggested uses
- Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
- Toxicity
- Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Potentilla argentea
- Cultivation
- Grow in well-drained soil in full sun
- Pruning
- No pruning required
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to honey fungus
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Potentilla argentea?
Grow in well-drained soil in full sun.
Where is the best place to plant Potentilla argentea?
Potentilla argentea prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Potentilla argentea need?
Potentilla argentea is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to well-drained.
How do I prune Potentilla argentea?
No pruning required.
How big does Potentilla argentea grow?
Potentilla argentea reaches a height of 0.1-0.5 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 1-2 years to reach full size.
Is Potentilla argentea hardy in the UK?
Potentilla argentea has a UK hardiness rating of H7.
How do I propagate Potentilla argentea?
Propagate by seed.
Is Potentilla argentea good for pollinators?
Yes — Potentilla argentea attracts and supports pollinators such as bees and other beneficial insects.
Is Potentilla argentea toxic?
Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers.