About
Potentilla crantzii, the alpine cinquefoil, is a low-growing, clump-forming, deciduous alpine perennial to around 10 cm with palmate, dark-green foliage. Large, five-petalled, bright golden-yellow flowers with an orange spot at the base are produced from May to July. An ideal and ornamental choice for a sunny, well-drained rock garden.
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, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
HeightUp to 10cm
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Rock garden, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationGrow in well-drained soil in full sun
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed and semi-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus