Cinquefoil (Potentilla fruticosa): Long-Blooming, Adaptable Shrub for Many Climates

Cinquefoil is a popular deciduous shrub thanks to manageable size, long bloom (summer to fall), and wide climate adaptability. Semievergreen. Zones 1–21, 32 (cooler), 34–45. Full sun/part shade. Moderate water.

1-inch single flowers in white, yellow, or dark reddish orange. Dozen+ cultivars with varied colors and heights (1–4 ft.; spread slightly less). Narrow oval green to gray-green leaves (<1 in.) on random, stiff branches. Growth rate varies; initial rapid, then moderate.

Care

• Well-drained soil; sun with afternoon shade in hottest regions.
• Prune yearly after bloom: remove crossing, damaged, old branches.
• To keep compact: cut to ground every few years in late winter as dormancy ends.