Shrubby cinquefoil (Dasiphora fruticosa)

Shrubby cinquefoil

Also known as: Shrubby five-finger, Widdy

Shrubby cinquefoil (Dasiphora fruticosa) is a plant species that is also referred to by the alternative latin name Potentilla fruticosa. The shrubby cinquefoil is very popular in Japan for use as a bonsai tree. 14 cultivars of this species have received the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.

Scientific classification

Species

Shrubby cinquefoil (Dasiphora fruticosa)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

Winter

Harvest Time

50 cm to 2 m

Plant Height

90 cm to 1.5 m

Spread

Green, Blue, Yellow, Gold, Bronze, Brown

Leaf Color

2 cm to 3 cm

Flower Size

Green

Fruit Color

Yellow, White, Pink, Gold

Flower Color

Images of Shrubby cinquefoil

Attributes of Shrubby cinquefoil

Growth Rate

With a slow growth speed, shrubby cinquefoil primarily expands during Spring and Summer. This gradual growth rate results in a structured and even arrangement of leaves, enhancing its resilience against resource depletion, diseases and pests. It may also entail a meticulous increase in height, producing steady, compact growth. Noticeable flowering accrues often late in the active season, flourishing distinctly against the dense foliage. Horticulturalists appreciate shrubby cinquefoil's modest requirements and the aesthetic value it provides through slow, enduring growth patterns.

Distribution of Shrubby cinquefoil

Distribution Map

Shrubby cinquefoil is native to most of the temperate northern hemisphere. It is very hardy and appears in all sorts of places. Most typically it can be found in moist, swampy areas or rocky terrain. It has spread to parts of Scandinavia and Central Europe.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Damp rocky ground, limestone

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Economic Value

Tannin extract can be extracted from the leaves and fruit of shrubby cinquefoil, and it can also be used as feed for camels.

Garden Use

A floriferous shrub, the shrubby cinquefoil is often used as a flowering hedge and is prized for its long blooming season. However, it can also be planted in beds and borders and is favored for its low maintenance and resistance to animals, pests, and disease. It is well suited to butterfly and pollinator gardens. Companion plants of the shrubby cinquefoil include catmint, English lavender, and Mexican daisy.

Symbolism

Happiness and toughness

Interesting Facts

Nature is magical and is a particularly fascinating place, where many amazing and beautiful things grow, and the shrubby cinquefoil is one of them. China's Tibet is basically a plateau with an extremely harsh environment and cold climate, so many plants cannot survive, but the shrubby cinquefoil blooms beautiful flowers that astonish the world.

Name Story

Shrubby cinquefoil: The common name of cinquefoil is in reference to the leaves in which cinq means five while foil means leaf. The leaves are divided into five or seven pinnate leaflets and the flowers are five-petaled flowers. Since it is a shrub species, it is called Shrubby cinquefoil.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Shrubby cinquefoil, including the following common varieties :

Cinquefoils 'Tilford Cream'Cinquefoils 'Katherine Dykes'Cinquefoils 'Red Ace'Cinquefoils 'Pink Beauty'Cinquefoils 'Abbotswood'Cinquefoils 'Lissdan'Cinquefoils 'Elizabeth'Cinquefoils 'Tangerine'Cinquefoils 'Primrose Beauty'Cinquefoils 'Goldfinger'Cinquefoils 'Klondike'

Quickly Identify Shrubby cinquefoil

Yellow, rose-like flowers, 0.75 inches (2 cm) across

Small, green, pinnate leaves, forming a rounded mound

Bright yellow flowers, 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter

Unscented flowers with 5 rounded petals, prolonged bloom season

Dry achene fruit, less than 0.2 inches (5 mm), resilient through winter

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Care Guide for Shrubby cinquefoil

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from cooler regions, shrubby cinquefoil thrives in well-drained soils and tolerates occasional dry spells. Water every 1-2 weeks to maintain moisture balance, especially during the growing season to enhance flowering. Ideal for rock gardens or borders, consistent moisture supports its growth and flowering potential.

Fertilize: For shrubby cinquefoil, a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) is recommended in spring for growth and flowering, applied every 4-6 weeks. Reduce frequency in autumn for dormancy. Use half-strength solutions to avoid root burn, as over-fertilization can harm shrubby cinquefoil. Proper care ensures optimal health and bloom.

Pruning: Shrubby cinquefoil is a hardy, deciduous shrub valued for its dense foliage and bright yellow flowers. Prune in early spring to promote health, shape, and flowering. Remove dead or old wood and thin dense areas for air circulation. Consult horticultural resources for optimal pruning guidelines.

Propagation: Shrubby cinquefoil is propagated easily through cuttings and layering, best done in autumn and winter. Success is marked by new growth, while adequate moisture and warmth are crucial for optimal results.

Repotting: Repot shrubby cinquefoil every 2-3 years in spring, using a wide, shallow container to support its growth. Provide enough space for root expansion and maintain consistently moist soil. Avoid direct sunlight for a week post-repotting to help shrubby cinquefoil acclimate to its new environment.

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Images of Shrubby cinquefoil

Attributes of Shrubby cinquefoil

Distribution of Shrubby cinquefoil

Culture

Cultivars

Quickly Identify Shrubby cinquefoil

Care Guide for Shrubby cinquefoil

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Common Pests & Diseases