Tormentil
Potentilla erecta
Also listed as Potentilla tormentilla, Tormentilla erecta
Also known as Erect Cinquefoil, Shepherd's-knot, Cinquefoil
Climate Match for your location
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A low-growing herbaceous perennial with small yellow four-petaled flowers and astringent roots historically used in herbal medicine. Tolerates poor, dry soils and naturalized grasslands.
Why grow it
Tormentil establishes readily in nutrient-poor, acidic, or waterlogged soils where many other herbaceous perennials struggle, making it useful for stabilizing marginal ground or integrating into wildflower meadows. Its dense, low growth habit provides ground coverage without requiring fertility inputs, and it tolerates both full sun and partial shade. Compared to other Potentilla species, it is notably more tolerant of wet conditions while remaining drought-hardy once established.
Watch out for
The plant can spread vigorously in suitable conditions and may need containment in small or carefully curated planting schemes. Harvest timing affects root potency if you intend medicinal use, typically requiring autumn digging after several years of growth.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Rosaceae
Native Range
European
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Herb
Soft non-woody plants of the field layer.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A low-growing herbaceous perennial with small yellow four-petaled flowers and astringent roots historically used in herbal medicine. Tolerates poor, dry soils and naturalized grasslands.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Tormentil grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Tormentil establishes readily in nutrient-poor, acidic, or waterlogged soils where many other herbaceous perennials struggle, making it useful for stabilizing marginal ground or integrating into wildflower meadows. Its dense, low growth habit provides ground coverage without requiring fertility inputs, and it tolerates both full sun and partial shade. Compared to other Potentilla species, it is notably more tolerant of wet conditions while remaining drought-hardy once established.
Watch out for
The plant can spread vigorously in suitable conditions and may need containment in small or carefully curated planting schemes. Harvest timing affects root potency if you intend medicinal use, typically requiring autumn digging after several years of growth.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Rosaceae
Native Range
European
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Herb
Soft non-woody plants of the field layer.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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