About
Potentilla rupestris, rock cinquefoil, is a slender, erect perennial to 60 cm with pinnate, hairy, dark-green basal leaves and loose, branching stems bearing masses of small, white, five-petalled flowers over several weeks in early summer. A rare and beautiful native wildflower for a sunny, well-drained rocky or gravel position.
About the genus
Potentilla are herbaceous perennials, deciduous shrubs or annuals with palmately or pinnately divided leaves and saucer-shaped, five-petalled flowers in yellow, white, pink or red over a long season. Widely grown in borders and rock gardens.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHNeutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesWildlife gardens, Wildflower meadow, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden
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
CultivationCan grow in thin, well-drained soil but will do better with deeper soil. It needs good light
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed or by division
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus