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Herbaceous Perennial

Potentilla rupestris
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

rock cinquefoil

A rare native flower in the wild, this perennial is very garden-worthy. It has green divided leaves and masses of small white 5-petalled flowers are produced over several weeks during summer

Synonyms
Drymocallis rupestris
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring White Green
Summer Green
Autumn Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H6
Botanical details
Family
Rosaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
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

How to grow

Cultivation

Can grow in thin, well-drained soil but will do better with deeper soil. It needs good light

Propagation

Propagate by seed or by division

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Wildflower meadow
  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus

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