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Description
Potentilla Recta Warrenii, commonly known as Warren’s cinquefoil, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to North America and is found in areas with dry, sandy, or rocky soils. The plant has a height of around 20-60 cm and a spread of 30-60 cm. It produces clusters of small, bright yellow flowers with five petals that bloom from June to August.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Potentilla |
Appearance
The Warren’s cinquefoil has a unique appearance with its bright yellow flowers and its hairy, green leaves. The leaves are pinnately compound with 5-7 leaflets that are toothed and have a silvery underside. The plant has a bushy habit and forms a dense clump of foliage. The flowers are 1-2 cm in diameter and have five bright yellow petals that are slightly notched at the tip. The plant has a taproot system that allows it to tolerate drought and poor soil conditions.
Care Guide
The Warren’s cinquefoil is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
- Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil and requires moderate watering. Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, but you can add a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote growth.
- Soil: The plant prefers dry, sandy, or rocky soils and can tolerate poor soil conditions.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate hot and dry conditions.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Warren’s cinquefoil is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but some issues may arise:
- Aphids: These small insects may feed on the plant’s sap and cause stunted growth and deformed leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control aphids.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests may cause yellowing of leaves and webbing on the plant. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control spider mites.
- Crown Rot: This fungal disease may cause the plant to wilt and die. Remove infected plants and avoid planting in areas with poor drainage.
Habitat
The Warren’s cinquefoil is native to North America and is found in areas with dry, sandy, or rocky soils. It is commonly found in open fields, meadows, and along roadsides. The plant is adapted to tolerate drought and poor soil conditions and is often used in xeriscaping and erosion control.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Warren’s cinquefoil invasive?
A: No, the Warren’s cinquefoil is not considered invasive, but it can spread by seed and form dense clumps.
Q: Can the Warren’s cinquefoil be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Warren’s cinquefoil can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the plant receives enough sunlight.
Q: How often should I water my Warren’s cinquefoil plant?
A: Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch. The plant prefers moderate watering and does not tolerate wet soil.
Q: Can the Warren’s cinquefoil be propagated by cuttings?
A: Yes, the Warren’s cinquefoil can be propagated by stem cuttings in the spring or fall. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant in moist soil.
Related Plants
- Potentilla arguta
- Potentilla fruticosa
- Potentilla simplex
- Potentilla recta
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Potentilla recta Warrenii. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c740
- North Carolina State University. (n.d.). Potentilla recta Warrenii. Retrieved from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/potentilla-recta-warrenii/
- University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum. (n.d.). Potentilla recta Warrenii. Retrieved from https://arboretum.wisc.edu/trees-plants/potentilla-recta-warrenii/
