This is a large genus of some 500 species belonging to the rose family. While most are herbaceous perennials, the shrubby species can be extremely useful as small ornamental plants. They are indigenous to the Northern Hemisphere, occurring from temperate to arctic regions. The gray-green to dark green leaves are mostly made up of 5 small leaflets and can have the appearance of feathers. The pretty flowers resemble small single roses; they appear from spring to summer and sometimes autumn, in small colorful clusters of yellow, orange, pink, and blood red Some species are used medicinally-the root bark of Potentilla reptans is said to stop nosebleeds and even internal bleeding.
CULTIVATION
These are hardy plants that grow in full sun or part-shade, preferring a fertile well-drained soil. Cultivars with orange, red, or pink flowers need to be carefully placed where they will receive some shade during the hottest part of the day. Propagation is from cuttings in summer or seed in autumn.
Top Tip
To make room for new growth, the oldest stems of Potentilla plants should be cut out every few years. This should be done only when flowering is over.
CULTIVATION
These are hardy plants that grow in full sun or part-shade, preferring a fertile well-drained soil. Cultivars with orange, red, or pink flowers need to be carefully placed where they will receive some shade during the hottest part of the day. Propagation is from cuttings in summer or seed in autumn.
Top Tip
To make room for new growth, the oldest stems of Potentilla plants should be cut out every few years. This should be done only when flowering is over.
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