Shrubby Cinquefoil Plant Care
Potentilla fruticosa L.
Dasiphora fruticosa is a species of hardy deciduous flowering shrub in the family Rosaceae, native to the cool temperate and subarctic regions of the northern hemisphere, often growing at high altitudes in mountains. Dasiphora fruticosa is still widely referenced in the horticultural literature under its synonym Potentilla fruticosa.
Every 7–10 days
Full sun to partial shade
50–75°F
40–60%
What Is the Shrubby Cinquefoil?
Shrubby Cinquefoil (Potentilla fruticosa) belongs to the Rosaceae family within the Potentilla genus. Shrubby Cinquefoil is native to the cool temperate and subarctic regions of the northern hemisphere, often growing at high altitudes in mountains. Shrubby Cinquefoil is also known as Bush cinquefoil, Golden hardhack, Fiveleaf cinquefoil.
Shrubby Cinquefoil displays a low spreading shrub growth habit, reaching up to 1.5 inches tall with a spread of approximately 2 inches. Shrubby Cinquefoil produces small, bright yellow flowers in clusters.
Leaf size: approximately 2 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Shrubby Cinquefoil?
Potentilla fruticosa requires watering every 7–10 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–10 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Shrubby Cinquefoil Need?
Shrubby Cinquefoil thrives in full sun to partial shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 200–1000 lux. Avoid placing Shrubby Cinquefoil in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun to partial shade
200–1000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Shrubby Cinquefoil Prefer?
Potentilla fruticosa grows best at temperatures between 50°F and 75°F. Shrubby Cinquefoil prefers humidity levels of 40–60%.
Temperature
50–75°F
Humidity
40–60%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Shrubby Cinquefoil?
Well-draining loamy soil with added compost for nutrients. Good drainage is essential for Shrubby Cinquefoil to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Shrubby Cinquefoil?
Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Shrubby Cinquefoil?
Shrubby Cinquefoil can be propagated through softwood cuttings, division.
Fertilizing
Every 6 months
During the growing season
Is the Shrubby Cinquefoil Toxic to Pets and Children?
Non-Toxic
Non-toxic to humans and pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Shrubby Cinquefoil?
Shrubby Cinquefoil is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, leafhoppers. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Shrubby Cinquefoil Need?
Shrubby Cinquefoil grows outdoors in USDA Zone 2a – 7b. Native to the cool temperate and subarctic regions of the northern hemisphere, often growing at high altitudes in mountains, Shrubby Cinquefoil is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Shrubby Cinquefoil as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 2a – 7b
Keep exploring plants
Shrubby Cinquefoil is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Potentilla genus — compare its care with other Potentilla species on PlantoScan.
Shrubby Cinquefoil tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
Identify Plants Like the
Shrubby Cinquefoil Instantly
Scan any plant with your iPhone camera and get instant ID, care tips, watering reminders, and disease checks — all in one app.
Free
to download
89%
accuracy
5.0
App Store
200K+
species