About
Potentilla megalantha, the large-flowered cinquefoil, is a clump-forming perennial to 25 cm with leaves divided into three elliptic leaflets and small clusters of bright-yellow flowers 3�4 cm across in late summer. A rewarding and ornamental perennial for a sunny, well-drained border or 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, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeAlpine Rockery, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Rock garden, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants
Native toJapan
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 poor, gritty, sharply drained soil in full sun
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in pots in a cold frame in autumn or spring. Propagate by division in autumn or spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus