Sand Cinquefoil

(Potentilla arenosa)

Sand Cinquefoil (Potentilla arenosa)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Potentilla arenosa, commonly known as Sand Cinquefoil or Alpine Cinquefoil, is a perennial herb native to a range of habitats including grasslands, meadows, open forests, and alpine regions in Canada, Northern Europe and Asia. It exhibits a moderate growth rate and typically reaches a height of 0.5-1.5 feet (0.15-0.5 meters) with a similar width of 0.5-1 feet (0.2-0.3 meters). The plant forms a low mound with pinnate leaves and bears bright yellow, showy flowers throughout the summer, which are attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Sand Cinquefoil is valued for its vibrant yellow flowers and its ability to thrive in a variety of soil types, making it a versatile choice for rock gardens, borders, and wildflower meadows. It is drought-tolerant once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping or gardens with low water availability. While it prefers full sun or part shade, it is adaptable to a range of light conditions. Sand Cinquefoil is relatively low-maintenance, requiring only moderate watering and well-draining soil, whether it be clay, loam, or sandy. It is not commonly afflicted by diseases or pests, but it can spread somewhat aggressively if conditions are ideal, so gardeners may need to manage its growth to prevent it from overtaking other plantings.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type:
  • Height: 0.5-1.5 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Border Plant, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

Native to grasslands, meadows, open forests, and alpine regions in Northern Europe and Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Sand Cinquefoil , Alpine Cinquefoil

Scientific Names: Potentilla arenosa , Potentilla arenosa var. nipharga , Potentilla arenosa var. pinnatisecta , Potentilla basanensis , Potentilla nipharga , Potentilla nivea , Potentilla nivea subsp. arenosa , Potentilla nivea var. arenosa , Potentilla nivea var. arenosa , Potentilla nivea var. nipharga , Potentilla nivea var. nivea

GBIF Accepted Name: