Potentilla Fruticosa Goldfinger

Potentilla Goldfinger, commonly known as ‘Shrubby Cinquefoil’, is a hardy deciduous shrub that is native to northern latitudes of the Northern Hemisphere, including North America, Europe, and Asia. It is a member of the rose family and is a popular ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes due to its showy flowers and easy care requirements.

Potentilla Goldfinger is a compact shrub that typically grows to a height of 1.5 metres and a width of 1 metre. It has a dense, mounded growth habit with small, oval-shaped, green leaves that are finely toothed along the margins and are arranged alternately along the stems. The shrub is deciduous, meaning that the leaves turn yellow in the Autumn  and drop off in the Winter.  It produces clusters of bright yellow flowers that are about 2cm in diameter and have five petals that are slightly crinkled at the edges, giving them a frilly appearance. The flowers bloom from late Spring to mid-Summer and are followed by small, round, green fruits that turn brown as they ripen.

This is a versatile shrub that can be used in a variety of settings. It works well in mixed borders, foundation plantings, and as a low hedge. It is also suitable for rock gardens and mass plantings. The bright yellow flowers provide a pop of colour in the landscape, and the compact growth habit makes it a good choice for smaller gardens.

How to care for your Potentilla Goldfinger

1. Sunlight: Plant in a location that receives full sun to partial shade. The plant needs at least six hours of sunlight per day.
2. Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil. If your soil is heavy or poorly draining, amend it with compost or sand to improve drainage.
3. Watering: It is drought-tolerant and doesn’t require frequent watering. Water deeply once a week during dry spells, making sure not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
4. Fertiliser: Fertilisation is not usually necessary, however, you can feed it with a slow-release fertiliser once in the Spring if you want to encourage growth and flowering.
5. Pruning: Doesn’t require much pruning, but you can lightly prune it in the early Spring to remove any dead or damaged branches. You can also shape the plant to your liking by pruning it after it has finished flowering. Avoid heavy pruning, as this can reduce the number of flowers the shrub produces.
6. Mulching: Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain moisture in the soil and suppress weeds. Use a layer of organic mulch, such as shredded bark or compost, and make sure it doesn’t touch the stems of the plant.

By following these care tips, you can keep your Potentilla Goldfinger healthy and blooming for many years to come.