Cinquefoil
IOverview
Overview
Cinquefoil (Potentilla fruticosa) is a perennial shrub native to regions including Alaska, Alberta, and Bulgaria. It thrives in moist, light to heavy soils with a pH range of 5 to 8 and can grow up to 1.2 meters tall. Known for its edible properties, cinquefoil has been used both as food and medicine across various parts of the world. Its distinctive feature is its compound leaves with five leaflets, from which it derives its common name. This plant's adaptability allows it to flourish in diverse habitats ranging from North America to Asia, making it a valuable addition to gardens and natural landscapes alike.
What is Cinquefoil?
Cinquefoil (Potentilla fruticosa) is a perennial shrub native to regions including Alaska, Alberta, and Bulgaria. It thrives in moist, light to heavy soils with a pH range of 5 to 8 and can grow up to 1.2 meters tall.
What is Cinquefoil used for?
Traditionally used for digestion, immune support. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
IIBenefits & evidence
2 claims · traditional-use context
Benefits & evidence
2 claims · traditional-use context- Cinquefoil has been traditionally used in herbal medicine to aid digestion, particularly as a tea. It is often recommended for digestive discomfort and bloating.
The mechanism by which Cinquefoil aids digestion is not fully characterised but may involve compounds that help regulate gut motility and reduce inflammation.
▲ ModerateDigestion → - Cinquefoil has been traditionally used in European herbal medicine to support the immune system, often prepared as a decoction. Its use is based on its historical reputation for enhancing overall health and resilience.
The mechanism by which Cinquefoil supports immunity is not fully characterised but may involve polyphenols that have antioxidant properties and can help modulate inflammatory responses.
▲ ModerateImmune support →
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftVCultivation
Cultivation
How to grow Cinquefoil for the first time
Start with planting Cinquefoil in a well-prepared soil and follow basic care instructions for success.
- 1
What you'll need
Cinquefoil plants or seeds, garden tools like trowel and rake.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Prepare soil with organic matter; ensure it's well-draining, light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) with a pH of 5-8.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants or sow seeds directly in the garden after preparing the soil.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged; mulch around the base for moisture retention.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, and fertilize sparingly in early spring. Prune dead or damaged branches as needed.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune after flowering to maintain shape; cut back by one-third to encourage new growth.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, using too much fertilizer, planting in poor soil, neglecting pruning, and not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
VIIDistribution
84 native · 5 introduced
Distribution
84 native · 5 introducedIXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family, common use cases, and growing requirements.
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