Rough cinquefoil - Potentilla norvegica (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images, Control)

Rough cinquefoil

Also known as: Ternate-leaved cinquefoil

Rough cinquefoil (Potentilla norvegica) is a flowering plant that grows throughout North America. The genus name "potentilla," comes from the Latin word "potens," which means "powerful." The species name "norvegica" references setters who first carried the plant to North America.

Scientific classification

Species

Rough cinquefoil (Potentilla norvegica)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Weeds

Weed or not

Annual, Biennial, Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Green, Blue

Leaf Color

2 mm to 4 mm

Flower Size

Brown

Fruit Color

Yellow

Flower Color

Green, Red

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Rough cinquefoil

Distribution of Rough cinquefoil

Distribution Map

Although native throughout the United States, Europe, and Russia, the rough cinquefoil has been introduced to select countries such as Germany and Japan. It is not known to be invasive. Its natural habitat includes weedy areas and fields, although it has also been kept in gardens as well.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Waste ground

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Money, Protection, Prophetic, Dreams

Name Story

Rough cinquefoil: Although this plant is an invasive plant, it is no denying that the plant looks beautiful. Each flower is featured with five round petals that look like a plum blossom and the leaves are covered with a layer of thin fur. It is commonly called rough cinquefoil.

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Weed Control

Rough cinquefoil is a widespread North American weed found primarily in the eastern half of the U.S. and the northwestern states, and all provinces in Canada. It usually grows in pastures and fields and prefers sandy, dry soil. It is not found on any state or national invasive species list. Since this plant reproduces by seeds, it is important to remove the flowers by hand pulling, hoeing or mowing before they go to seed and to get the entire underground taproot. It can encroach on other plants in a garden setting. This weed competes with other plants for light, water, and soil nutrients.

How to Control It

The best season to control rough cinquefoil (Rough cinquefoil) is during late spring, preferably before it begins flowering. This is because once the plant starts to flower, it can readily spread seeds and proliferate, making control difficult.

Hand Pulling: The simplest method to control rough cinquefoil is by hand pulling. It should be done in the early growth phase when the root system isn't well-developed. Wearing gloves, lightly tug at the stem till the plant and root are fully removed from the soil. Dispose of the plant in a bio-waste bin to prevent further spread.
Smothering: This is a more environmental-friendly method but requires patience. Cover the plant with thick layers of newspaper or any biodegradable material. Top it with mulch to hold the material in place. This will block sunlight and inhibit the growth of the rough cinquefoil, causing it to eventually die.
Crop Rotation: This method requires careful planning. Any area infested by the rough cinquefoil should be ploughed and then sown with a crop that naturally inhibits the growth of rough cinquefoil. The choice of crop will depend on the local climate and soil conditions.
Vinegar Spray: A natural homemade herbicide can be created using household vinegar, which contains acetic acid. Create a spritz by mixing 1 part vinegar with 3 parts water and spray it directly onto the rough cinquefoil, preferably on a sunny day. However, use this method cautiously to avoid harming non-target plants.

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Care Guide for Rough cinquefoil

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Rough cinquefoil thrives in consistently moist environments, preferring evenly moist soil and stable humidity. It requires weekly watering to maintain hydration and adapts well to varying rainfall patterns, making it ideal for gardeners seeking low-maintenance plants.

Propagation: Rough cinquefoil propagates best in Spring via Sowing. It's easy to propagate, resulting in healthy roots and new leaves. Maintain moist soil conditions for optimal growth.

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Images of Rough cinquefoil

Distribution of Rough cinquefoil

Culture

Weed Control

Care Guide for Rough cinquefoil

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