Shrubby Cinquefoil
Dasiphora fruticosaUSDA | Grow Zone
3-7Outdoors all year in zones 3 to 7. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant.
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Weekly, deep watering
- Humidity
- Moderate humidity
- Temperature
- 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 3-4 ft tall, 2-3 ft wide
- Pets
- Non-toxic to pets
Shrubby Cinquefoil, or Dasiphora fruticosa, is a resilient shrub native to the Northern Hemisphere, known for its bright yellow flowers. This versatile plant is popular for its ability to thrive in various conditions, making it a favorite among gardeners seeking low-maintenance options.
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Ideal temperature
60-75°F is where it grows fastest.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 3-4 ft tall, 2-3 ft wide
- Plant apart
- 24-36 in
- Frost
- Hardy: survives frost
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Shrubby Cinquefoil prefers well-drained soil and should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells.
Water deeply once a week, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. In the summer months, increase frequency if the weather is particularly hot. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering may cause wilting and browning leaf edges.
Light
This plant thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
It can tolerate partial shade, but flowering may be reduced. Ideal placement includes sunny borders or open areas where it can receive ample light throughout the day.
Soil
Shrubby Cinquefoil prefers sandy or loamy soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0.
It requires good drainage to prevent root rot, so a potting mix that includes perlite or sand is recommended for container growth.
Humidity
This plant is adaptable to various humidity levels but prefers moderate humidity.
To increase humidity, mist the leaves or place a humidifier nearby. Signs of humidity stress include leaf curling and browning tips.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for Shrubby Cinquefoil is between 60-75°F (15-24°C).
It is hardy in USDA zones 3-7, tolerating cold temperatures down to -30°F (-34°C) and heat up to 90°F (32°C). During extreme heat, provide some afternoon shade to prevent stress.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10, applying it every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).
Reduce or stop fertilizing in the fall and winter. Signs of nutrient deficiency include yellowing leaves and poor growth.
Pruning
Prune Shrubby Cinquefoil in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Use sharp, clean pruning shears to remove dead or damaged branches and to shape the plant. Deadheading spent flowers throughout the blooming season can encourage more blooms and prevent self-seeding.
Repotting
Repotting is typically needed every 2-3 years or when the roots become pot-bound.
Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Signs that it needs repotting include roots growing out of the drainage holes and stunted growth. To repot, gently remove the plant from its pot, loosen the roots, and place it in fresh potting mix.
Propagation
Propagation can be achieved through stem cuttings or seeds.
For stem cuttings, take 4-6 inch cuttings in late spring, remove lower leaves, and place in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and in indirect light until roots develop. Seeds can be sown in spring after the last frost, requiring a cold stratification period of 30 days for best results.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
This can be caused by over-watering or nutrient deficiency.
How to fix it
Check the soil moisture and reduce watering if it is too wet. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer if nutrient deficiency is suspected.
Root rot
Why it happens
Root rot occurs due to excessive moisture and poor drainage.
How to fix it
Ensure the pot has drainage holes and reduce watering frequency. If root rot is present, remove the affected roots and repot in fresh soil.
Wilting leaves
Why it happens
Wilting can indicate under-watering or extreme heat stress.
How to fix it
Water the plant thoroughly and provide some shade during the hottest part of the day.
Poor flowering
Why it happens
Insufficient sunlight or lack of deadheading can lead to fewer blooms.
How to fix it
Ensure the plant receives full sun and regularly deadhead spent flowers to encourage new blooms.
Browning leaf edges
Why it happens
This can be a sign of low humidity or under-watering.
How to fix it
Increase humidity around the plant and ensure consistent watering.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, prune back any dead or damaged branches and apply a balanced fertilizer to promote new growth and flowering.
Summer
During the summer, ensure consistent watering, especially during dry spells, and deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.
Fall
In fall, reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy and consider applying a light layer of mulch to protect the roots during winter.
Winter
In winter, protect the plant from extreme cold by mulching around the base and avoid over-watering as the plant's growth slows.
Toxicity & Safety
Shrubby Cinquefoil is considered non-toxic to pets and children. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. Always monitor pets and children around plants.
Good to know
How often should I water my Shrubby Cinquefoil?
Water your Shrubby Cinquefoil deeply once a week, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings, especially during dry spells.
Why are my Shrubby Cinquefoil leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves can indicate over-watering or nutrient deficiency. Check the soil moisture and adjust watering, and consider fertilizing if needed.
What type of soil is best for Shrubby Cinquefoil?
Shrubby Cinquefoil prefers sandy or loamy soil with good drainage and a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. A potting mix with perlite is ideal for containers.
When should I prune my Shrubby Cinquefoil?
Prune your Shrubby Cinquefoil in late winter or early spring before new growth begins to remove dead branches and shape the plant.
Is Shrubby Cinquefoil toxic to pets?
No, Shrubby Cinquefoil is non-toxic to pets and children, making it a safe choice for gardens with kids and animals.
How can I encourage more blooms on my Shrubby Cinquefoil?
To encourage more blooms, ensure the plant receives full sun, deadhead spent flowers regularly, and provide balanced fertilization during the growing season.
What are the ideal temperatures for growing Shrubby Cinquefoil?
Shrubby Cinquefoil thrives in temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C) and is hardy in USDA zones 3-7, tolerating cold and heat well.
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