Cinquefoil, Creeping cinquefoil

Potentilla reptans

Physical Characteristics

Potentilla reptans is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Europe, including Britain, from Norway south and east to the Mediterranean, Siberia, Himalayas.

Habitats

Meadow;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Young leaves - raw[7]. A useful addition to salads[7].

Medicinal Uses

Antidiarrhoeal Antispasmodic Astringent Febrifuge Odontalgic Both the roots and the herb are antispasmodic, astringent and febrifuge[4, 7, 9, 54, 240]. An infusion of the dried herb is used in the treatment of diarrhoea etc, it is also used as a gargle for sore throats and is used externally as an astringent lotion[4]. A concentrated decoction of the root relieves toothache[7].

Known Hazards

None known