Potentilla reptans aka Creeping Cinquefoil

Taxonomy

Potentilla reptans, also known as creeping cinquefoil or creeping tormentil, is a creeping perennial plant native to Eurasia and Northern Africa, but has been naturalized in other parts of the world. Its trailing stems root at the nodes and leaves have long stalks. The plant blooms in the summer with yellow flowers that have five heart-shaped petals, and it can easily be confused with silverweed. The grizzled skipper butterfly favors this plant. Alcoholic extracts from its roots have shown moderate antimicrobial activity against common wound pathogens. However, it can be an invasive weed in lawns and flowerbeds, and can be difficult to eradicate. All of the taproots must be dug up, or the plant will reappear. Mowing is not effective for controlling this weed, as it stimulates root growth and encourages the plant to spread. Potentilla supina, another species of flowering plant in the Rosaceae family, is native to Europe, Turkey, and Northern and Southern Africa. It is not to be confused with creeping cinquefoil. In terms of care, creeping cinquefoil is a rare houseplant that requires regular watering and thrives in direct light that is no more than a foot away from a window. It prefers well-draining soil and should be repotted each time it doubles in size.

Common names

Creeping Cinquefoil, European Fivefinger, Creeping Tormentil

How to care for Creeping Cinquefoil

Difficulty

With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Creeping Cinquefoil, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.

Water

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

Soil

Creeping 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 Creeping Cinquefoil prefers bright indirect 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.

Toxicity

No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.

Fertilizer

Once the Creeping Cinquefoil has doubled in size or after a year has passed, it should be moved to a new pot. By replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the vital nutrients, your plant will receive all the sustenance it needs, negating the requirement for fertilizer. It's important to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.

Region of origin

Creeping Cinquefoil’s native range is Europe, including Britain, from Norway south and east to the Mediterranean, Siberia, Himalayas.


More info:
Wikipedia