Cinquefoil
Potentilla reptansfam. Rosaceae
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Pl. 01B1 — Potentilla reptans
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IOverview
Overview
Cinquefoil (Potentilla reptans) is a perennial herb belonging to the Rosaceae family and is known for its light, airy form that can spread up to 1 meter in height. Native to regions including Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, and parts of Europe, this plant thrives in well-draining soils with a pH between 7 and 7.5. Its edible leaves are often used in culinary applications, while its medicinal properties have been documented for centuries. One distinctive feature is its ability to grow in various soil types, from light sandy to heavy clay, making it adaptable to different environments. Another notable characteristic is its dry to moist nature, which contributes to its hardiness ratings of 4-8.
Quick answers
What is Cinquefoil?
Cinquefoil (Potentilla reptans) is a perennial herb belonging to the Rosaceae family and is known for its light, airy form that can spread up to 1 meter in height. Native to regions including Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, and parts of Europe, this plant thrives in well-draining soils with a pH between 7 and 7.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Digestive Harmony
digestiontincture
Historically used for digestive issues.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Cinquefoil thrives in light to medium soil with a pH of 7-7.5 and prefers well-drained conditions. It can tolerate both dry and moist environments but dislikes overly wet or heavy clay soils. The plant is hardy in temperate regions (zones 4-8) and requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. Cinquefoil is best propagated by division, which can be done in early spring or fall. Harvest its edible leaves for culinary use.
Light
7/10
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
1.0 m tall
Soil pH
7–7.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Cinquefoil for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple and low-maintenance perennial that will thrive in your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Cinquefoil plants, gardening gloves, trowel, watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Cinquefoil in spring or fall when the weather is cooler.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is well-draining with a pH of 7–7.5; prepare containers if needed, ensuring they have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants from nursery pots directly into the garden bed or start seeds indoors and transplant later.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to help establish roots; keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide light watering during dry spells, mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth; remove dead leaves as needed throughout the season.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting to prune, not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of Cinquefoil (Potentilla reptans) are edible and can be consumed fresh or dried. They are typically used in salads when fresh, adding a mild flavor to the dish. Dried leaves can also be steeped to make tea.
Other uses:Cosmetic
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 30 native
Europe16 regions
native (16)AlbaniaAustriaBelarusBelgiumBulgariaCyprusDenmarkFinlandFranceGermanyGreeceHungaryPortugalRussiaSpainUnited Kingdom
Asia3 regions
native (3)AfghanistanChinaIran
Africa3 regions
native (3)AlgeriaEritreaEthiopia
Broader regions
native:Baltic States, Czechoslovakia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Rosaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Rosaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
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