About
Potentilla nitida, the shining cinquefoil, is a diminutive, densely tufted alpine to 10 cm with palmate, silvery-hairy leaves and deep-pink, saucer-shaped flowers to 2.5 cm across in summer. A beautiful, low-growing alpine for a sunny, very well-drained rock garden or alpine trough.
About the genus
Potentilla can be herbaceous perennials, deciduous shrubs, or annuals, with palmately or pinnately divided leaves and solitary or clustered, saucer-shaped, 5-petalled flowers appearing over a long period
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeSand, Loam, Chalk
Soil pHNeutral, Alkaline, Acid
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeAlpine Rockery
HabitTufted
FoliageEvergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesGravel garden, Rock garden, Patio and container plants, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toAlps
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 a rock garden, scree bed, alpine trough or sink in well-drained soil or compost in full sun
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed in autumn or spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus