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Potentilla nitida
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

shining cinquefoil

A diminutive, densely tufted alpine to a height of 10cm, with palmate silvery-hairy leaves and deep pink, saucer-shaped flowers to 2.5cm across, in summer

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Size
Ultimate height
Up to 10cm
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Sand
Loam
Chalk
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Neutral, Alkaline, Acid
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Grey Silver
Summer Pink Grey Silver
Autumn Grey Silver
Winter Grey Silver
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

West–facing or South–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Rosaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Tufted
Potentially harmful
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
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

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Alps

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in a rock garden, scree bed, alpine trough or sink in well-drained soil or compost in full sun

Propagation

Propagate by seed in autumn or spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Gravel garden
  • Rock garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus

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