Potentilla alba (White Cinquefoil)

Potentilla alba (White Cinquefoil) is a handsome perennial groundcover forming a low mound of glossy gray-green leaves adorned with 5 palmate leaflets and pure white flowers in spring to early summer.

Potentilla alba (White Cinquefoil) is a handsome perennial groundcover forming a low mound of glossy gray-green leaves adorned with 5 palmate leaflets and pure white flowers in spring to early summer. Borne in loose clusters above the foliage, the orange-eyed, rose-like blossoms may bloom again in the fall. White Cinquefoil is well suited for the rock garden or the sunny border.

  • Grows up to 3-5 in. tall (7-12 cm) and 6-12 in. wide (15-30 cm). Will reseed in the garden where happy.
  • Performs best in full sun or light shade, in average, moist, well-drained soils. Drought resistant once established.
  • Virtually pest and disease free, it is also deer resistant.
  • Cinquefoil is very adaptable and an excellent choice for border fronts, cottage gardens, or rock gardens. Great as a groundcover too.
  • Native to Central, Southern, and Eastern Europe.

Requirements

Hardiness 5
– 8

Heat Zones 3
– 8

Plant Type Perennials
Plant Family Potentilla – Cinquefoils
Exposure Full Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Mid,Late)Summer (Early)
Height 3"
– 5"
(7cm
– 12cm)
Spread 6"
– 1'
(15cm
– 30cm)
Spacing 10″
– 12″
(25cm
– 30cm)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Showy
Tolerance Deer, Drought
Garden Uses Beds and Borders, Ground Covers
Garden Styles Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage