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Chinese Cinquefoil

Potentilla chinensisfam. Roseaceae
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Potentilla chinensis (Chinese Cinquefoil) — botanical photograph
Pl. A358 — Potentilla chinensis
Potentilla chinensisPotentilla chinensisPotentilla chinensisPotentilla chinensisPotentilla chinensisPotentilla chinensisPotentilla chinensisPotentilla chinensisPotentilla chinensisPotentilla chinensisPotentilla chinensisPotentilla chinensisPotentilla chinensisPotentilla chinensis
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Overview

Chinese Cinquefoil, Potentilla chinensis, is a perennial plant belonging to the Roseaceae family, native to regions including Amur, China, Korea, and Japan. It thrives in moist conditions with light to partial sun exposure, making it adaptable to various soil types such as sandy, medium, and clay. Known for its edible leaves and shoots, this plant has also been used medicinally throughout its range. Chinese Cinquefoil can grow up to 0.6 meters tall and is often found in habitats across the eastern parts of Asia, from Inner Mongolia to Taiwan. Its distinctive features include light green foliage and small yellow flowers, adding ornamental value to gardens or natural landscapes. While the plant is generally safe, it is advisable to exercise caution when using it medicinally, as its specific compounds and effects require further research.

Quick answers

What is Chinese Cinquefoil?

Chinese Cinquefoil, Potentilla chinensis, is a perennial plant belonging to the Roseaceae family, native to regions including Amur, China, Korea, and Japan. It thrives in moist conditions with light to partial sun exposure, making it adaptable to various soil types such as sandy, medium, and clay.

Compare with:Nepal Cinquefoil→Elaeagnus thunbergii→Yoshino Privet→all comparisons →
IV·b

Mixology suggestions

2 drafts
Editorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Stress Relief
stress
tincture
Historically used for calming the mind and reducing anxiety.
Digestive Comfort
digestion
decoction
Traditionally used to soothe digestive issues.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Chinese Cinquefoil thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows up to 0.6 meters tall and can be propagated through shoots. This perennial plant is hardy in temperate regions and is native to areas including Amur, China, Japan, Korea, and Mongolia. For optimal growth, ensure the soil remains consistently moist while providing ample sunlight or partial shade.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.6 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Chinese Cinquefoil for the first time

8steps

Chinese Cinquefoil is a hardy perennial that's easy to grow for beginners, making it an excellent choice for your first garden plant.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Seeds or small plants, a trowel, and a watering can.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring after the last frost or in early fall before the first freeze.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Choose a location with light to partial shade and well-draining soil. Amend the soil with compost if needed.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds in the ground or start them indoors 4-6 weeks before planting outside. Transplant young plants from containers.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering, especially if drainage is poor.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide light watering during dry spells and mulch around the base for moisture retention. Prune in early spring to maintain shape.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune dead or damaged branches as needed throughout the growing season. Harvest leaves and shoots for culinary use.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting to prune, and not providing enough light.

VI

Edible & utility

Edible parts:LeavesShoots
Edible uses: The leaves and shoots of Chinese Cinquefoil are edible. They can be consumed fresh or used in various preparations such as teas or added to salads for a light, flavorful addition.
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

13 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across1 continent· 13 native
Asia5 regions
native (5)ChinaJapanMongoliaSouth KoreaTaiwan
Broader regions
native:Amur, Khabarovsk, Primorye
IX

Specimen gallery

1 image
Potentilla chinensis (Chinese Cinquefoil) — botanical photograph
Chinese Cinquefoil (Potentilla chinensis)
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See also

8 related
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Explore further

XII

About this entry

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