Rough-Fruited Cinquefoil, Erect cinquefoil

Potentilla recta

Physical Characteristics

Potentilla recta is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 0.6 m (2ft in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

C. and S. Europe to W. Asia. More or less naturalized in Britain. Casual in Eastern N. America.

Habitats

Meadow; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked[207]. The unripe fruit is almost as pleasant as the fully ripe fruit[207].

Medicinal Uses

Astringent The whole plant is astringent[257]. A poultice of the pounded leaves and stems has been applied to open sores and wounds[257].

Known Hazards

None known