Shrubby Cinquefoil Potentilla fruticosa 'Pink Beauty' (PBR)
ABOUT
'Pink Beauty' is a captivating cultivar known for its charming floral display and luscious foliage. This plant features a profusion of lovely pink blooms that lighten to a soft pastel hue as they mature. The flowers burst forth in a symphony of color that can add a romantic, whimsical touch to any garden. Each blossom consists of five delicate petals that form a classic, cup-shaped flower, inviting admiration from passersby and pollinators alike. The foliage of 'Pink Beauty' is dense and lush, composed of small, pinnate leaves which are often a vibrant green, creating an attractive contrast against the pink softness of the flowers. The leaves may turn to a rich, warm hue as the seasons transition, lending an additional layer of visual interest. Overall, 'Pink Beauty' presents a harmonious blend of color and form, captivating the senses and offering a serene yet lively presence in a garden setting. Its long blooming season ensures a dynamic and evolving display that can be treasured from spring through fall.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae.
Synonyms
Shrubby Cinquefoil, Pink Beauty Potentilla, Bush Cinquefoil, Pink Beauty Shrubby Cinquefoil.
Common names
Potentilla fruticosa 'Pink Beauty' (PBR)
ToxicityTo humans
Shrubby cinquefoil is generally considered to be non-toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases or significant concerns regarding poisoning from this plant. Consequently, ingesting parts of the shrubby cinquefoil is not expected to result in symptoms of poisoning or serious consequences for humans.
To pets
Shrubby cinquefoil is also generally regarded as non-toxic to pets. It is not known to cause poisoning in animals if they ingest it. Therefore, consumption of this plant by pets is unlikely to lead to toxic symptoms or severe health issues.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
2-4 feet (0.6-1.2 meters)
Spread
2-4 feet (0.6-1.2 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
2-6
Native area
Northern Hemisphere
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Flowers: Produces delicate pink flowers that add a splash of color to gardens.
- Extended Blooming: Has a long flowering period from late spring to fall.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for low-maintenance landscaping.
- Hardy Plant: Survives in a wide range of climatic conditions, including cold environments.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it can withstand periods of low water availability.
- Deer Resistant: Generally not preferred by deer, which helps prevent damage in gardens frequented by wildlife.
- Attracts Pollinators: Flowers attract bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
- Compact Growth: Maintains a neat, compact shape that works well in formal and informal garden designs.
- Erosion Control: Can be used on slopes and banks to help stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
- Versatile Use: Ideal for use in borders, ground cover, hedges, and as foundation plantings.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Shrubby Cinquefoil 'Pink Beauty' can be used for natural dyeing; the roots often contain tannins that can produce a range of colors on fabrics.
- Extensive planting of Shrubby Cinquefoil can help with erosion control, as their root system stabilizes the soil.
- The plant's dense growth habit makes it an excellent choice for privacy hedges or living fences.
- Shrubby Cinquefoil is a food source for wildlife; its flowers are attractive to bees and butterflies, while birds may feed on its seeds.
- The plant can be used in xeriscaping, as it is drought resistant once established, suitable for water-conserving gardens.
- Due to its compact size and shape, Shrubby Cinquefoil is an attractive option for bonsai cultivation.
- The flowers of Shrubby Cinquefoil can be used in floral arrangements to add a delicate, wildflower touch.
- It serves as an indicator plant in ecological research to study habitat conditions and changes.
- Used in sensory gardens, Shrubby Cinquefoil has soft textured leaves and brightly colored flowers that stimulate the senses.
- By planting Shrubby Cinquefoil near vegetable gardens, it can act as a companion plant to attract pollinators and improve crop yields.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Shrubby Cinquefoil is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Shrubby Cinquefoil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Endurance and Resilience: This shrub is known for its hardy nature, able to survive in harsh conditions, making it a symbol of enduring through challenges.
- Charm and Attraction: With its 'Pink Beauty' epithet and delicate flowers, it is associated with attractiveness and the power to captivate.
- Bountifulness and Prosperity: The prolific blooms of the shrub can represent abundance and the wish for a prosperous life.
- Elegance: The graceful form and pretty flowers of the shrub can symbolize elegance and refinement.
- Femininity: The soft pink hues of the 'Pink Beauty' variant are often connected to qualities traditionally associated with femininity, such as gentleness and nurturing.
WaterShrubby Cinquefoil 'Pink Beauty' prefers evenly moist soil, so it's important to water it deeply and thoroughly. During the growing season, water the plant once a week with approximately 1 gallon of water per plant, ensuring that the soil is moist but not soggy. Adjust the frequency to account for rainfall and be mindful during hot, dry periods which might necessitate watering twice a week. Reduce watering in the fall and winter when the plant is dormant. Always check the soil moisture level before watering to avoid overwatering.
LightShrubby Cinquefoil 'Pink Beauty' thrives best in full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot for this plant would be one where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. If planting in partial shade, make sure it still receives ample morning sunlight for optimum flowering.
TemperatureShrubby Cinquefoil 'Pink Beauty' is hardy and can withstand a wide range of temperatures. It can survive in temperatures as low as -30°F and as high as 90°F. However, the ideal temperature for this plant is between 60°F and 70°F during the growing season.
PruningPruning Shrubby Cinquefoil 'Pink Beauty' helps maintain its shape and encourages denser growth and better flowering. Prune in late winter or early spring, removing dead or old wood and shaping the plant. It's generally recommended to trim no more than one-third of the plant's total height. Pruning can also be done after the first flush of flowers to rejuvenate the plant and encourage a second bloom.
CleaningAs needed
SoilShrubby cinquefoil 'Pink Beauty' thrives best in well-drained loam or sandy soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. A mix incorporating organic matter such as compost or peat will enhance growth. For container growing, use a balanced potting mix with perlite or grit for improved drainage.
RepottingShrubby cinquefoil 'Pink Beauty' typically does not require frequent repotting and can be repotted every 3 to 4 years. Always repot in the spring, just before new growth starts, if the plant has outgrown its container or the soil has degraded.
Humidity & MistingShrubby cinquefoil 'Pink Beauty' is quite adaptable to various humidity levels and typically does well in average outdoor humidity conditions. It does not have specific humidity requirements but benefits from natural air circulation.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Choose a sunny spot; water when topsoil feels dry.
Outdoor
Plant in sunny location, in well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
2-7 USDA
Life cyclePotentilla fruticosa 'Pink Beauty', commonly known as Shrubby Cinquefoil, begins its life cycle with seed germination, where the plant emerges from seed typically in spring under favorable conditions of warmth and moisture. The seedling develops into a young plant with characteristic finger-like leaves and sends down roots which establish it firmly in the soil. In its growth phase, the shrub rapidly increases in size and sprouts stems and foliage, becoming a fully mature plant capable of flowering, typically reaching this stage within a year if conditions are right. The flowering stage occurs during late spring or early summer, showcasing pink flowers that attract pollinators and are vital for the reproductive process. After pollination and fertilization, the plant produces small fruits containing seeds, thereby completing its reproductive cycle. The Shrubby Cinquefoil is a perennial, thus after the growing season it enters a period of dormancy during colder months, only to regrow from its root system the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
The most popular method of propagation for Potentilla fruticosa 'Pink Beauty' or Shrubby Cinquefoil is through semi-hardwood cuttings. This technique is typically done in late summer. Cuttings should be about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) long, taken from the current year’s growth. The lower leaves are removed, and the base of the cutting is dipped in a rooting hormone to encourage root development. Then, the prepared cuttings are inserted into a potting mix that ensures good drainage. The pot should be placed in a sheltered location with indirect sunlight. It is vital to maintain moisture without overwatering, as this might lead to rot. Roots usually form within a few weeks, after which the new plants can be transplanted to their final location.
