Potentilla argentea (Silvery cinquefoil) — Bushy

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 H6. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, gravel garden, rock garden and flower borders and beds.

About

Potentilla argentea, commonly known as silvery cinquefoil, is a bushy herbaceous perennial in the rose family, Rosaceae. This deciduous plant grows to a height and spread of 0.1 to 0.5 metres, reaching full size within one to two years. It thrives in full sun and suits south- or west-facing aspects, tolerating both exposed and sheltered conditions. Potentilla argentea prefers moist but well-drained or well-drained soils, including chalk, loam, and sand, across a range of pH levels from acid to alkaline. It is of interest during the spring and summer seasons.

About the genus

Potentilla is a genus containing over 500 species of annual, biennial and perennial herbaceous flowering plants in the rose family, Rosaceae.

Wikipedia contributors, "Potentilla", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Potentilla

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: H6

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: Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Rock garden, Flower borders and beds

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Potentilla argentea

Propagation: Seed, Semi-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistance: Generally pest-free
Disease resistance: Honey fungus

Frequently asked questions

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.