Potentilla nivea — Clump forming

Overview

Potentilla nivea is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Potentilla, part of the Rosaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Potentilla nivea grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include borders, low hedging and rock gardens.

About

Potentilla nivea, called the snow cinquefoil, snowy cinquefoil, and villous cinquefoil, is a species of flowering plant in the genus Potentilla, native to Subarctic Asia, North America, Greenland, and Europe, and the Subalpine Rockies and Alps. It comes in many ploidy levels; 2x, 3x, 4x, 5x, 6x, 7x, 8x and 10x. Grow it in full sun and most soil types. In UK gardens it is very hardy across most of the UK (RHS H6). It works well for borders, low hedging and rock gardens. It tolerates soil of any pH, well-drained conditions and south-facing and west-facing aspects. Plant after last frost in fertile soil.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Potentilla nivea

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Potentilla

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH: Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Well-drained
Aspect: South-facing, West-facing
Exposure: Exposed
UK hardiness: H6

Plant details

Potentilla nivea size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Herbaceous Perennial
Habit: Clump forming
Foliage: Deciduous
Suggested uses: Borders, Low hedging, Rock gardens

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Potentilla nivea

Propagation: Seed, Division
Pest resistance: Generally pest-free
Disease resistance: May be susceptible to honey fungus

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Potentilla nivea?

Potentilla nivea prefers full sun. It suits exposed positions.

What soil does Potentilla nivea need?

Potentilla nivea is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.