Overview
Potentilla palustris is a clump forming bogs in the genus Potentilla, part of the Rosaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.1-0.5 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Potentilla palustris grows best in full sun, and tolerates clay and loam soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is attractive to pollinators. Suggested uses include wildlife gardens and cottage and informal garden. It is native to Temp. N. Hemisphere.
About
Potentilla palustris is a perennial plant characterized by its woody base and rhizomatous growth, reaching heights of up to 50 cm. It features upright, flexible stems adorned with grey-green foliage comprised of five to seven leaflets. In early summer, it produces loose clusters of rich red blooms, each accompanied by large sepals that exhibit a red flush.
About the genus
Potentilla encompasses herbaceous perennials, deciduous shrubs, and annuals. Their foliage is either palmately or pinnately divided, and they produce solitary or clustered flowers that are saucer-shaped with five petals, blooming over an extended season.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Potentilla
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Clay, Loam
- Soil pH
- Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Poorly-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Potentilla palustris size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Bogs
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.5-1 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Wildlife gardens, Cottage and informal garden
- Native to
- Temp. N. Hemisphere
- Toxicity
- Fruit 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
Pruning and caring for Potentilla palustris
- Cultivation
- Grow in permanently wet, alkaline or neutral soil in full sun
- Pruning
- No pruning required
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed, or by division, in autumn or spring
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to honey fungus
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Potentilla palustris?
Grow in permanently wet, alkaline or neutral soil in full sun.
Where is the best place to plant Potentilla palustris?
Potentilla palustris prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Potentilla palustris need?
Potentilla palustris grows best in clay and loam soil. It prefers alkaline and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays poorly-drained.
How do I prune Potentilla palustris?
No pruning required.
How big does Potentilla palustris grow?
Potentilla palustris reaches a height of 0.1-0.5 metres and a spread of 0.5-1 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Potentilla palustris hardy in the UK?
Potentilla palustris has a UK hardiness rating of H7.
How do I propagate Potentilla palustris?
Propagate by seed, or by division, in autumn or spring.
Is Potentilla palustris good for pollinators?
Yes — Potentilla palustris attracts and supports pollinators such as bees and other beneficial insects.
Is Potentilla palustris toxic?
Fruit 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.