Potentilla supina aka Prostrate Cinquefoil

Potentilla supina is in the rose family, Rosaceae. Its native range spans temperate and subtropical zones of the Northern Hemisphere. It is native to northern and southern Africa too. Kew lists it as an annual of temperate climates. Plants For A Future lists annual and perennial forms. These live for one year or for more than two years. The RHS says it is not native to Britain or Ireland.

This small herb grows about 1 foot [0.3 metres] tall. The sources give no leaf or stem details for this species. They give no flower colour or time of bloom. Each flower has both male and female organs. Insects move pollen between flowers. The plant is self-fertile: it can use its own pollen. The sources give no facts about its fruit or seeds.

In Turkey, it grows on damp waste ground and in ditches. Known sites lie about 656 to 8,202 feet [200–2,500 metres] above sea level. Plants For A Future says it prefers moist soil. Its species account lists sand, loam, and clay as suitable soils. It says the soil must drain well. The stated pH range is mildly acid to mildly alkaline. The plant grows in light shade or with no shade. The source lists garden beds as a place to grow it. It does not confirm hardiness in Britain or give a hardiness zone. Its wider growing notes cover the genus, not just this species.

Plants For A Future says to sow seed in a cold frame. Sow in early spring or autumn. Move each seedling to its own pot when large enough to handle. Keep them in a greenhouse for their first winter. Plant out in late spring or early summer, once frost risk has passed. The source also says to divide plants in spring. Keep small divisions under shelter until they grow strong enough to plant out.

You can cook the young leaves, but their food value is low. The source treats them as food for times of shortage. It lists past root uses for fever, toothache, and indigestion. It calls the root astringent and tonic: used to tighten tissues and boost health. These records show past use, not proof that treatments work. Plants For A Future reports no known hazards or other uses. This does not prove safety for people or pets. It flags no weed potential but gives no pest or disease details.