Shrubby Cinquefoil Potentilla fruticosa 'Tangerine'
ABOUT
The 'Tangerine' variety of Shrubby Cinquefoil is a deciduous flowering shrub known for its distinctive orange-yellow flowers that resemble small roses with their multiple petals densely clustered in the center. These vibrant blossoms provide a sharp contrast against its fine-textured, dark green foliage. The green leaves are small, pinnate, and commonly have a fern-like appearance. The overall shape of the plant is mounded with arching branches that give it a lush and full-bodied look. Its flowers are particularly alluring to butterflies and other pollinators, which are drawn to its warm-toned blooms throughout its lengthy flowering season. The Shrubby Cinquefoil 'Tangerine' is recognized for its hardiness and ability to thrive in a variety of soil conditions, which, in conjunction with its striking appearance, makes it a popular choice for garden landscapes.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae.
Synonyms
Shrubby Cinquefoil, Bush Cinquefoil, Golden Hardhack, Potentilla, Tangerine Potentilla.
Common names
Dasiphora fruticosa, Potentilla fruticosa, Pentaphylloides fruticosa, Potentilla floribunda, Dasiphora floribunda.
ToxicityTo humans
Shrubby cinquefoil is not known to be toxic to humans. It is generally considered safe and does not commonly cause poisoning or adverse reactions when touched or ingested.
To pets
Shrubby cinquefoil is also considered non-toxic to pets. It is not associated with causing poisoning in animals such as dogs or cats, and ingestion typically does not lead to serious symptoms or long-term health consequences.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Orange
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
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: The bright flowers of Potentilla fruticosa 'Tangerine', commonly known as Shrubby Cinquefoil, are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, this plant is drought-resistant, making it suitable for gardens in arid climates or areas with water restrictions.
- Long Blooming Season: With a blooming period that spans from early summer to fall, it provides prolonged visual interest in the landscape.
- Low Maintenance: Shrubby Cinquefoil is known for being easy to care for, requiring minimal pruning and upkeep.
- Cold Hardiness: This plant is capable of surviving and thriving in cold climates, making it a robust choice for northern gardens.
- Versatile Landscaping: It can be used in a variety of landscape designs, including borders, foundation plantings, and as a ground cover.
- Deer Resistance: Shrubby Cinquefoil is not a preferred food source for deer, reducing the likelihood of damage in areas with deer populations.
- Color Variety: The 'Tangerine' variety adds a unique orange hue to the garden palette, enriching the diversity of colors.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Shrub Potentilla can be used to create natural dye, particularly from its flowers, which can produce a range of soft yellow to greenish hues when used in the dyeing process.
- The branches of the Potentilla can be woven into small decorative baskets or used as the structural elements in crafting due to their pliability and strength.
- The plant can be utilized as a low-maintenance ground cover in gardens to prevent soil erosion on slopes and banks.
- Potentilla is great for attracting and supporting a variety of wildlife, such as bees and butterflies, serving as a pollinator-friendly plant.
- The bush's dense growing habit makes it ideal for creating informal hedges or privacy screens in the landscape.
- Due to its hardiness and resistance to urban pollution, Potentilla can be used in urban landscaping projects for green belts and roadside plantings.
- The shrub's bright flowers and long blooming period make it suitable for use in ornamental container gardens and patio pots.
- Small birds may use Potentilla shrubs as nesting sites due to their dense foliage, making them beneficial for bird-friendly gardens.
- The plant can be used as a living mulch under taller trees and shrubs to improve soil fertility and retain moisture.
- Potentilla can operate as a companion plant in vegetable gardens, potentially helping nearby plants by attracting beneficial insects that prey on common garden pests.
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: Potentilla fruticosa 'Tangerine', commonly known as Shrubby Cinquefoil, is a hardy plant that can withstand challenging conditions, making it a symbol of endurance and resilience.
- Protection: In historical folklore, cinquefoil was associated with protection due to the belief that its five-leaf arrangement could ward off evil.
- Maternal Love: The nurturing growth habit and long blooming season of Shrubby Cinquefoil reflects the continuous and caring aspect of maternal love.
- Attraction: With its bright, tangerine-colored flowers, this plant is often associated with attraction, both in terms of pollinators and people being drawn to its warm and inviting hues.
WaterThe Shrubby Cinquefoil 'Tangerine' should be watered deeply and thoroughly, ensuring the root zone is moistened. On average, this shrub requires watering once weekly, but during hot, dry spells, increase the frequency to twice a week. Apply approximately 1 to 1.5 gallons of water per session for an established plant, depending on soil type and weather conditions. Avoid overwatering by allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between watering sessions.
LightShrubby Cinquefoil 'Tangerine' thrives best in full sun to partial shade. It should be planted in a location where it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, but it can also tolerate light shade, especially in the afternoon during the hottest part of the day. The ideal spot is one that is well-lit in the morning with some protection from the scorching afternoon sun.
TemperatureShrubby Cinquefoil 'Tangerine' is quite hardy, tolerating temperatures as low as -30°F and as high as 90°F. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60°F and 75°F. Ensure that it is planted in a location where the temperature conditions stay within this range for optimal growth.
PruningShrubby Cinquefoil 'Tangerine' should be pruned to maintain shape and encourage new growth. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before the growing season begins. It's advisable to remove dead or old wood and thin out the center to allow light and air to penetrate the shrub. Pruning can be done annually or as needed to keep the plant looking tidy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilShrubby Cinquefoil 'Tangerine' thrives best in well-drained, loamy soil with added organic matter, and prefers a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. A soil mix of equal parts garden soil, compost, and peat or sand can provide the right balance of nutrients and drainage.
RepottingShrubby Cinquefoil 'Tangerine' typically does not require frequent repotting as it is mostly grown as a landscape shrub rather than a container plant. Repotting is rarely needed unless the plant is outgrowing its current space.
Humidity & MistingShrubby Cinquefoil 'Tangerine' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does well in average outdoor conditions. It does not have specific humidity requirements and will usually thrive without special attention to humidity levels.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Generally not suited for indoor growing; needs full sun, outdoors.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-draining soil; space 2-3 feet.
Hardiness zone
2-7 USDA
Life cyclePotentilla fruticosa 'Tangerine', commonly known as Shrubby Cinquefoil, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates in spring under appropriate temperature and moisture conditions. After germination, the seedling emerges and develops into a young plant with characteristic compound leaves and a robust root system. Over time, the plant grows into a mature shrub, reaching its full size and starting to produce the distinct yellow-to-orange flowers for which it is named, usually in late spring to early summer. The flowering stage continues throughout the summer, during which time pollination occurs, leading to the development of small, inedible fruit that contain seeds for the next generation. As temperatures cool in the fall, the shrub prepares for dormancy by reducing growth and conserving resources. During winter, the plant remains dormant until conditions are favorable for a new growth cycle in the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Late Winter to Early Spring
The Potentilla fruticosa 'Tangerine', also commonly known as Shrubby Cinquefoil 'Tangerine', is a plant species that can be propagated through softwood cuttings. This method is quite popular due to its relative ease and effectiveness. The best time to take cuttings for propagation is in late spring to early summer when the plant's new growth is still soft and pliable. To propagate, cut a 4-6 inch (10-15 cm) length of stem, making sure it includes at least two sets of leaves. Remove the lower leaves to expose the nodes, dip the cutting in rooting hormone for enhanced root development, and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. The cutting should be kept moist and in a warm environment with indirect light until roots develop, which may take several weeks. Once rooted, the young plant can be transplanted to a more permanent location.
