About
Potentilla atrosanguinea, the dark-crimson cinquefoil, is a clump-forming perennial with three-lobed, silky-hairy leaves and red, orange or yellow flowers carried in loose, open sprays on wiry stems in summer. A rewarding and colourful perennial for a sunny, well-drained border.
About the genus
Potentilla, the cinquefoils, can be herbaceous perennials, deciduous shrubs or annuals with palmately or pinnately divided leaves and solitary or clustered, saucer-shaped, five-petalled flowers over a long period. Among the most reliable and floriferous of all garden plants.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Coastal, Wildlife gardens
Native toHimalaya to Tibet
ToxicityFruit 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
CultivationGrow in any well-drained, moderately fertile soil in full sun
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by division in spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus