Potentilla Rivalis
Contents
Description
Potentilla Rivalis, also known as the river cinquefoil, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the rose family. It is native to North America and can be found growing along riverbanks, wetlands, and other moist habitats. The plant can grow up to 2 feet tall and 3 feet wide, producing bright yellow flowers with five petals that bloom from late spring to early summer. The leaves are palmately divided into five leaflets and are a dark green color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Potentilla |
Appearance
Potentilla Rivalis has a bushy, spreading growth habit with a dense cluster of leaves at the base of the plant. The leaves are palmately divided into five leaflets, each with toothed edges. The flowers are bright yellow and have five petals, which are about 1 inch in diameter. They bloom in late spring to early summer and are followed by small, dry fruits that contain several seeds. The plant can grow up to 2 feet tall and 3 feet wide.
Care Guide
Potentilla Rivalis prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate partial shade but prefers full sun. Water the plant regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Potentilla Rivalis is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and rust if the plant is stressed or growing in a poorly ventilated area. Insect pests, such as aphids and spider mites, may also infest the plant.
Habitat
Potentilla Rivalis is native to North America and can be found growing along riverbanks, wetlands, and other moist habitats. It is adapted to growing in soil that is periodically flooded or saturated with water. The plant is commonly found in the eastern United States, from Texas to Maine.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Potentilla Rivalis a good plant for a water garden?
A: Yes, Potentilla Rivalis can grow in soil that is periodically flooded or saturated with water, making it a good choice for a water garden.
Q: Does Potentilla Rivalis attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the bright yellow flowers of Potentilla Rivalis attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Q: How often should Potentilla Rivalis be fertilized?
A: Potentilla Rivalis should be fertilized in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
Q: Can Potentilla Rivalis grow in full sun?
A: Yes, Potentilla Rivalis prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Related Plants
- Potentilla Reptans
- Potentilla Fruticosa
- Potentilla Simplex
- Potentilla Erecta
References
- “Potentilla Rivalis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282114&isprofile=0&basic=Potentilla%20rivalis.
- “Potentilla Rivalis.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science, powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30007338-2.
- “Potentilla Rivalis.” North Carolina State Extension, content.ces.ncsu.edu/potentilla-rivalis.
