Dasiphora fruticosa
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Dasiphora fruticosa

Shrubby Cinquefoil · Potentilla · Bush cinquefoil · Golden hardhack · Widdy

Tier 1 Difficulty: easy Water: low Light: full_sun Toxicity: low
Water every
7 days
0
Soil pH
6–6
Hardiness
Zone 2–7
Click count
465
Observations
5,638

Description

Source: leafsnap

Dasiphora fruticosa, commonly known as Shrubby Cinquefoil, is a deciduous flowering plant belonging to the Rosaceae family. Native to the northern hemisphere, it thrives in diverse habitats including rocky slopes, meadows, and forests. The plant typically grows between 1 and 3 feet tall and has a spreading habit with woody stems covered in small green leaves. These leaves are pinnately divided into 5-7 leaflets with serrated edges. The flowers of Dasiphora fruticosa are bright yellow, consist of five petals, and bloom from late spring through summer. They grow in clusters at the ends of stems, attracting bees and butterflies for pollination. Following the flowering period, small fruits develop, containing numerous seeds. Shrubby Cinquefoil is a hardy plant that tolerates various soil types but prefers well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. It requires minimal maintenance but benefits from occasional pruning to promote bushier growth. Traditionally, indigenous people have used this plant for medicinal purposes, leveraging its anti-inflammatory properties to treat ailments such as diarrhea, fever, and coughs. Overall, Dasiphora fruticosa is an attractive ornamental shrub ideal for landscaping due to its beautiful yellow flowers that bloom throughout the summer. It is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking low-maintenance plants with vibrant colors during the growing season.

💡 Nature is truly magical and captivating, filled with amazing and beautiful creations, including the shrubby cinquefoil. In Tibet's harsh and cold plateau environment, where many plants struggle to survive, the shrubby cinquefoil thrives, producing stunning flowers that never fail to astonish the world.

🌳 Shrubby cinquefoil has been recognized for its potential in phytoremediation, a method that uses plants to clean soil, air, and water contaminated with hazardous substances. Its capacity to survive in poor soil conditions makes it a suitable candidate for restoring areas affected by heavy metal pollution, demonstrating an unexpected but important application.

🎭 Joy and resilience

Care Guide

💧 Water Every 7 days

Shrubby cinquefoil, native to cooler regions, flourishes in well-drained soils and can withstand occasional dry spells. To maintain the right moisture balance, water it every 1-2 weeks, particularly during the growing season to boost flowering. This plant is perfect for rock gardens or borders, where consistent moisture helps it reach its full growth and flowering potential.

Suggested frequency: Every 7 days
FAQ
How should I water my Shurbby cinquefoil plant?

To ensure excellent root development, place a garden hose at the base of your plants. Avoid spraying the leaves directly, but if the plants are outside and in direct sunlight, the leaves will need more watering. You can also use bubblers or soaker hoses to moisten the roots. When adding or removing plants, use soaker hoses that cover the entire garden or bed to reach deep down into the roots. After watering, make sure to drain any excess water and wait for the soil to dry before watering again. To prevent diseases, always water at ground level. On a sunny day, consider spraying the entire bush with water. Whether your plants are potted or in the ground, remember that Shrubby cinquefoil prefers deep watering rather than light sprinkling.

What should I do if I give too much or too little water to Shrubby cinquefoil?

If a Shrubby cinquefoil is overwatered, its leaves may turn yellow, drop off, and wilt, giving the plant a dull and unhealthy appearance. Mushy stems are also a common sign. When these signs are observed, it's best to adjust your watering schedule as needed. However, wilting can also indicate under-watering, in which case the leaves may become crispy and dry. In such instances, checking the soil for dryness and providing a thorough watering can help. While this will allow the Shrubby cinquefoil to recover, the plant may still display dryness and yellowing leaves due to root damage for a few days. Once the plant returns to normal, the yellowing of leaves will subside. When growing Shrubby cinquefoil indoors, it is important to check the moisture levels and avoid overwatering. If black spots are present, allowing the soil to dry in the pot for a few days by withholding water can be helpful. Overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot. If root rot is observed, transferring the plant to a different pot may be necessary, especially if the roots appear discolored and slimy. Preventing root rot by avoiding excessively moist soil is crucial. Additionally, when planting Shrubby cinquefoil outdoors, it is advisable to dig a bit deeper. If the soil feels too dry when checked with your fingers, it could be a sign of underwatering, and providing adequate watering can aid in the plant's recovery.

How many times a week should I water my Shrubby cinquefoil?

The Shrubby cinquefoil prefers deep watering but not too often. When planted in pots, it's important to soak them in a gallon of water each time to account for the limited water storage. In cold regions, watering is needed every 3 to 5 days, preferably in the morning when the soil is dry. To determine if watering is necessary, check the top 2-3 inches of soil. If it's dry, the plant needs a full watering. You may need to check the moisture daily during hot days as the soil in the pot can dry out quickly. For garden plants, irrigation is required, especially in hot climates where watering once a week is recommended. Only water when the top 2 to 3 inches of soil are dry, and consider the amount of rainwater on the plant to avoid root rot. Adding mulch 3 to 4 inches deep can help conserve water when the plants are outdoors. Sandy soil tends to drain faster, so more frequent watering is needed, while clay soil requires less frequent watering to prevent root rot. Keeping track of watering dates and monitoring the drooping of leaves can help ensure proper watering.

How much water should I give my Shrubby cinquefoil?

The Shrubby cinquefoil plant generally needs about a gallon of water on a regular basis. If you have potted plants, it's best to water them deeply until the water is dripping at the bottom of the pot. After that, wait for the soil to dry before watering again. To determine how much water you've given the plant in a week, you can use a water calculator or a moisture meter. During the flowering period, it's important to provide plenty of water, but allow the moisture to evaporate afterwards to avoid root rot. If the Shrubby cinquefoil plant is planted outside and receives adequate rainfall, it may not need additional watering. However, when the plant is young or newly planted, it should receive 1-2 inches of rain per week. As the Shrubby cinquefoil plant grows, it can survive solely on rainfall. Only when the weather is excessively hot or there has been no rainfall for 2-3 weeks, should you consider giving the plant a thorough watering during cooler parts of the day to prevent damage from high heat. Additional watering is necessary during prolonged dry periods.

Do I need to change how often I water my Shrubby cinquefoil based on the season or weather?

The Shrubby cinquefoil requires outdoor conditions with rain, but only needs watering during persistent dry weather. During the spring and fall seasons, the soil should be kept moist but not soggy, alternating between dry and moist conditions will promote growth. In the summer, hot weather can cause water to evaporate quickly, so additional watering may be necessary if there is a lack of rainfall. During winter, the Shrubby cinquefoil needs less water as it becomes dormant and drops its leaves. Use a well-draining soil mixture such as terracotta to help water evaporate. Once the plant starts leafing out and goes dormant, watering can be skipped, relying on fall and winter rains. Proper drainage is crucial, especially during winter, as the plant does not tolerate ponding or drought while flowering. In pots, the plant has limited root growth, so frequent watering is needed, especially in summer. Deeply soak the entire root system once or twice a week, avoiding shallow sprinkles that reach the leaves as they can promote fungal growth. In fall and winter, even during dormancy, avoid letting the plants dry out completely. Avoid over-watering, as sitting in water for too long can harm the plant, especially in winter. Applying mulch can reduce stress, conserve water, and promote healthy blooms.

☀️ Light Full sun

Shrubby cinquefoil does best when it gets a generous amount of sunlight each day. Although it is moderately tolerant of lower light, it can still grow healthily. Native to areas with abundant sun, it may exhibit slow growth if exposed to less intense light. Too much shade can reduce its overall vigor.

Ideal: Full sun
FAQ
What are the sunlight requirements for Shrubby Cinquefoil (Dasiphora fruticosa)?

Shrubby Cinquefoil thrives best in full sun conditions, requiring above 6 hours of sunlight to maintain optimal health. It can also tolerate partial sun, meaning it can grow in conditions where it receives about 3-6 hours of sunlight per day. However, when choosing a spot for your Shrubby Cinquefoil, it's crucial to observe how sunlight moves through your garden to ensure that the plant gets a balance of light and shade. This careful observation can greatly influence the happiness and growth of your plant.

Why is sunlight essential for Shrubby Cinquefoil, and what are the additional lighting tips?

Sunlight is essential for Shrubby Cinquefoil because it originates from habitats with abundant sunlight, which helps it grow healthily. If the plant is exposed to less intense light or too much shadow, it may demonstrate signs of sluggish growth and reduced vigor. For indoor plants or those in less sunny spaces, adequate lighting is crucial, especially in winter. Artificial lighting, such as LED lights, can be an effective solution, providing the necessary wavelengths for optimal growth. Full sun plants usually require 30-50W\/sq ft of artificial light, partial sun plants need 20-30W\/sq ft, and full shade plants need 10-20W\/sq ft. The light source should be placed 12-36 inches above the plant, and most plants will benefit from 8-12 hours of light per day.

What are the symptoms of improper sunlight exposure in Shrubby Cinquefoil?

Shrubby Cinquefoil may exhibit various symptoms due to improper sunlight exposure. These include small and lighter-colored new leaves, indicating insufficient sunlight and a lack of necessary nutrients. Additionally, leggy or sparse growth, faster leaf drop, slower or no new growth are signs of light deficiency. Conversely, symptoms of excessive sunlight include chlorosis (leaves turning yellow), sunscald (damage from intense exposure), leaf curling, wilting, and leaf scorching (brown, dry edges on leaves). These conditions highlight the importance of providing the right amount of sunlight to maintain plant health.

How can you address sunlight-related issues for Shrubby Cinquefoil?

To address sunlight-related issues for Shrubby Cinquefoil, gradually transitioning the plant to a sunnier location can be beneficial, aiming for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. For indoor plants or those difficult to move, using artificial light such as a desk or ceiling lamp for at least 8 hours daily can provide additional light. For outdoor plants, it's crucial to avoid sudden changes in light to prevent sunburn. Removing obstructions and transplanting the plant during its dormant period to a location with better sunlight and drainage can also help improve its growth. It's important to note that while parts of the plant affected by insufficient light may not recover, new growth should be healthy with improved light conditions.

🌡️ Temperature 0–32.2°C

Shrubby cinquefoil, a temperate woody species, favors temperatures from 32 °F to 90 °F (0 °C to 32 °C). In its native habitat it requires well-drained soil and can tolerate hot summers and cold winters. In winter the plant can withstand temperatures as low as -40 °F (-40 °C).

Ideal temperature: 0–32.2°C
FAQ
What is the preferred temperature range for Shrubby Cinquefoil?

Shrubby cinquefoil, also known as Dasiphora fruticosa, prefers a temperature range between 32 to 90°F (0 to 32°C). It thrives in a temperate climate and can adjust to both hot summers and cold winters, tolerating temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C). This resilience makes it a versatile plant for various climates.

How should I prepare Shrubby Cinquefoil for winter?

To prepare Shrubby cinquefoil for winter, it is recommended to water the plant generously before the first freeze of autumn. This ensures the soil around it stays moist and enters a frozen state, which helps in preventing drought and water scarcity during the colder months. Since the plant is highly cold-tolerant, it does not require additional frost protection measures.

What should I do if the temperatures fall below -40°C for my Shrubby Cinquefoil?

If temperatures fall below -40°C, Shrubby cinquefoil's branches may become brittle and dry by spring, failing to produce new shoots. To manage this, prune away any dead branches in the spring that have not developed new leaves. This helps the plant to recover and encourages new growth.

How does high temperature affect Shrubby Cinquefoil and what can I do?

Shrubby cinquefoil does not tolerate high temperatures well. When temperatures exceed 32°C, the plant may suffer from significant leaf drop, and in severe cases, it can wither and die. To mitigate damage from high temperatures, trim away sunburned and dried parts, move the plant to a shadier location, or use shade cloth to protect it from the midday and afternoon sun. Additionally, water the plant in the morning and evening to keep the soil moist and help the plant stay hydrated.

💨 Humidity
Humidity:
🪴 Soil 6-6
Soil pH: 6-6
🌱 Fertilizer

Fertilize your Shrubby cinquefoil in early spring to encourage healthy growth. Regular feeding improves overall health, leading to vigorous growth, better tolerance of challenging conditions, and increased resistance to diseases and pests. Keep to a consistent fertilization schedule for your Shrubby cinquefoil to ensure vibrant foliage with deep color and a lush appearance.

FAQ
Why should I put fertilizer on my Shrubby cinquefoil?

To ensure the health and attractiveness of your Shrubby cinquefoil, it is important to fertilize regularly. Proper nutrient supply will promote vigorous growth, making the plant more resilient to harsh conditions and better able to combat diseases and pests. The foliage of the Shrubby cinquefoil is particularly appealing, so it is crucial to maintain its integrity. This can be achieved by implementing a consistent fertilization schedule tailored to your specific plant. Following this regimen will result in deep-colored leaves and an overall lush appearance.

When should I fertilize my Shrubby cinquefoil plant?

To keep your Shrubby cinquefoil healthy, it's best to fertilize it in late winter or early spring. This will provide the necessary nutrients for the plant to grow well when the weather gets warmer. If you live in a warm climate, it's also helpful to give your Shrubby cinquefoil another round of fertilizer in early fall. This will give the plant extra nutrients for the following growing season and make it more resilient to cold winter temperatures. Fertilizing earlier in the year will allow the new branches to grow stronger and better withstand the winter cold.

When is the best time to not put fertilizer on my Shrubby cinquefoil?

To ensure healthy growth of your Shrubby cinquefoil, avoid fertilizing it at certain times of the year. The first period is during the early and mid-winter months when the plant is dormant and does not require feeding. Another time to avoid fertilization is late spring and throughout the summer, as the hotter and drier weather can have a detrimental effect on the plant's response to fertilizers. To prevent any issues, it is best to stick to a fertilization schedule that only involves feeding during early spring and early fall.

What kind of fertilizer does my Shrubby cinquefoil need?

Shrubby cinquefoil primarily relies on nitrogen as its most crucial nutrient, but this doesn't diminish the importance of phosphorus and potassium. Ideally, a balanced fertilizer like a 10-10-10 is recommended as it provides a sufficient amount of all three nutrients. However, a more refined nutrient ratio tends to promote optimal growth. Higher nitrogen ratios like 10-6-4 often yield better results. You can use either granular or liquid-based fertilizers for application.

How do I give nutrients to my Shrubby cinquefoil plant?

To fertilize your Shrubby cinquefoil, there are two options: granular fertilizer and liquid fertilizer. If you choose the granular fertilizer, simply sprinkle it on the soil at the right time. The nutrients will be slowly released over time. It's a good idea to lightly water your Shrubby cinquefoil before applying the fertilizer. On the other hand, using liquid fertilizer is less common. To use this method, mix the fertilizer with water and pour it around the base of your Shrubby cinquefoil. Sometimes, it's helpful to perform a soil test before fertilizing to check if you need to adjust the pH.

🪴 Pot & Repot 2-3 years

When repotting Shrubby cinquefoil, select a pot 1–2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) larger that has good drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix. Repot in spring or fall, making sure the root ball sits slightly below the rim of the flower pot. Water thoroughly after repotting and place the pot in a warm spot with indirect sunlight.

Suggested frequency: 2-3 years
✂️ Pruning

Shrubby cinquefoil is a resilient deciduous shrub, appreciated for its dense foliage and vibrant yellow flowers. To encourage health, shape, and blooming, prune the shrub in early spring. Remove any dead or old wood and thin out dense areas to improve air circulation. For the best pruning practices, consult horticultural resources.

🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity

Dasiphora fruticosa has no toxic effects reported.

Characteristics

Plant Type
Shrub
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Dasiphora
Family
Rosaceae
Hardiness Zone
2-7
Mature Height
0.49 m to 2.13 m
Mature Spread
0.91 m to 1.52 m
Leaf Color
Green, Blue, Yellow, Gold, Bronze, Brown
Leaf Type
Deciduous
Flower Color
Yellow
Flower Size
2.29 cm to 3.05 cm
Bloom Time
Early summer, Mid summer
Planting Time
Spring, Autumn
Harvest Time
Mid summer, Late summer
Native Area
Turkey, Sweden, India, Slovakia, Bulgaria, Armenia, Pakistan, Croatia, China, Russia, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Italy, Spain, Japan, Estonia, Mongolia, Koppen, Bhutan, Ireland, United Kingdom, Azerbaijan, Latvia, France

Tags (8)

Common Names (9)

en Shrubby Cinquefoil
en Potentilla
en Bush cinquefoil
en Golden hardhack
en Widdy
en Stiff Shrubby Cinquefoil
en Buckbrush
en Ölandstok (Swedish)
en Cinquefoglio cespuglioso