Potentilla thurberi
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Potentilla thurberi

Scarlet cinquefoil

Tier 2 Difficulty: medium Water: low Light: full_sun
Temperature
5–35 °C
Soil pH
6–8
Hardiness
Zone 4–9
Click count
88
Observations
82

Description

Source: leafsnap

Potentilla thurberi, the scarlet cinquefoil, is a species of Potentilla Found in North America (Arizona, New Mexico) in moist soils along streams or in damp meadows from 5,000-9,000 ft (1524-2743 m); flowers July-September. It is of the rose family so it smells like a rose.

Care Guide

💧 Water

Scarlet cinquefoil thrives with moderate watering and balanced moisture, needing hydration every 1 to 2 weeks for optimal health. It is adaptable to various climate zones and can fit into different rainfall patterns, demonstrating its versatility in water requirements.

☀️ Light Full sun

Scarlet cinquefoil is a perennial herbaceous plant that prefers sunny, open habitats and commonly grows in meadows and grasslands. It favors full sun but can also tolerate partial sun.

Ideal: Full sun
🌡️ Temperature 5–35°C

Scarlet cinquefoil can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, though its distribution may still be constrained by particular combinations of moisture and heat. It performs best in warm summer climates with sufficient rainfall or watering. Extended stretches of cloudy, rainy weather or sustained high temperatures can raise the chance of Scarlet cinquefoil dying. In winter, providing adequate protection from cold can increase the plant’s survival rate.

Ideal temperature: 5–35°C
💨 Humidity
Humidity:
🪴 Soil 6-8
Soil pH: 6-8
🌱 Fertilizer

One fertilizer application in spring is generally adequate for Scarlet cinquefoil, though repeated feedings can boost growth to the fullest. Feed about once every month to a month and a half. Fertilizing improves the look and function of the leaves, helping maintain even color and a healthy texture. It also encourages root development and nutrient uptake, supporting the plant’s long-term health.

🪴 Pot & Repot Every 12 months
Suggested frequency: Every 12 months
✂️ Pruning

The vibrant scarlet cinquefoil, known for its red flowers, should be pruned from early to late spring. This process involves removing dead stems and spent blooms to encourage growth and improve air circulation. By pruning after the plant has flowered, you ensure that next season's buds remain intact. This not only revitalizes the plant but also reduces the risk of disease.

🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity

Characteristics

Plant Type
Herb
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Potentilla
Family
Rosaceae
Hardiness Zone
4-9
Mature Height
40 cm
Mature Spread
40 cm
Leaf Color
Dark Green
Leaf Type
Deciduous
Flower Color
Red
Flower Size
2.03 cm to 3.05 cm
Bloom Time
Summer
Planting Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Harvest Time
Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall
Native Area
Mexico

Tags (6)

Common Names (1)

en Scarlet cinquefoil