Potentilla recta aka Sulphur Cinquefoil

Taxonomy

Genus Potentilla Family Rosaceae Order Rosales Class Magnoliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Potentilla recta, also known as sulphur cinquefoil or rough-fruited cinquefoil, is a species of cinquefoil native to Eurasia. However, it has been introduced to North America and can now be found throughout the continent, with the exception of the northernmost parts of Canada and Alaska. This herbaceous perennial can reach heights of up to 60cm and has palmately divided leaves with five or seven coarsely toothed leaflets. During the summer, it produces loose sprays of saucer-shaped bright canary-yellow flowers that are approximately 2.5cm wide. It is considered a minor noxious weed in some areas and can be found in various habitats, including disturbed and weedy places. The plant likely originated in the Mediterranean Basin, and the first recorded collections were made in Ontario in the 19th century and British Columbia in 1914. Sulfur cinquefoil is a vigorous, non-rhizomatous perennial that belongs to the rose family. It typically grows to heights of 12-30" and is native to regions ranging from the Mediterranean to central Asia, including areas such as Asia Minor, Iran, and alpine regions of northern Africa. It was unintentionally introduced to North America in the late 1800s and has since naturalized in a wide range of habitats, particularly disturbed areas such as roadsides, railroad right of ways, abandoned agricultural fields, meadows, pastures, and waste areas. The genus name, Potentilla, stems from the Latin word "potens," meaning powerful, in reference to the plant's reputed medicinal properties. The specific epithet, recta, translates to upright in Latin.

Common names

Sulphur Cinquefoil, Erect Cinquefoil, Erect Potentil

How to care for Sulphur Cinquefoil

Difficulty

Sulphur Cinquefoil presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Water

Sulphur Cinquefoil should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Sulphur Cinquefoil loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Sulphur Cinquefoil prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it's common for Sulphur Cinquefoil to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Fertilizer

Repotting the Sulphur Cinquefoil is necessary either when it has doubled in size or once every year, whichever happens first. With fresh potting soil replenished annually, the plant will receive all the necessary nutrients, rendering the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that the source of a plant's energy is the sun, not fertilizer.

Growth-pattern

Sulphur Cinquefoil grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.

Region of origin

Sulphur Cinquefoil’s native range is C. and S. Europe to W. Asia. More or less naturalized in Britain. Casual in Eastern N. America.

More info:
Wikipedia

More Species in Potentilla Genus

Potentilla argentea Silver Cinquefoil

Potentilla sterilis Barren Strawberry

Potentilla arenosa Bluff Cinquefoil

Potentilla anserina

Potentilla thuringiaca European Cinquefoil

Potentilla verna Spring Cinquefoil

Potentilla aurea Potentilla Aurea

Potentilla cryptotaeniae

Potentilla hippiana Woolly Cinquefoil

Potentilla indica False Strawberry