Species

10 other cultivars

shrub

Shrubby Cinquefoil

Q: What zones can Shrubby Cinquefoil grow in?

Shrubby Cinquefoil is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Q: Is Shrubby Cinquefoil deer resistant?

Yes — Shrubby Cinquefoil is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

Q: When does Shrubby Cinquefoil bloom?

Shrubby Cinquefoil typically blooms in late spring to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Q: Does Shrubby Cinquefoil need full sun?

Shrubby Cinquefoil does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Q: Is Shrubby Cinquefoil drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Shrubby Cinquefoil handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Potentilla fruticosa 'Happy Face Yellow'

$23.99

The Story

Plant Bio

Potentilla fruticosa, or Shrubby Cinquefoil, is a hardy, adaptable, and long-blooming deciduous shrub native to the Northern Hemisphere. It typically has a mounded habit with small, pinnately compound, dark green leaves and five-petaled, saucer-shaped flowers.

'Happy Face Yellow' is a standout cultivar known for its exceptionally large, bright, sunny-yellow flowers that cover the plant from late spring until the first frost. It maintains a dense, mounded habit with fine-textured, dark green foliage, offering superior flower coverage and performance.

Uses & Benefits:

Vivid yellow flowers brighten garden beds and borders, attracting pollinators and adding cheerful color.

Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for xeriscaping and sustainable gardens.

Supports bees and butterflies, contributing to local biodiversity.

SpeciesPotentilla fruticosaShrubby Cinquefoil

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

30 inches

Width

30 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial Shrub

Native To

North America, Europe, Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Great Garden Plants

<1 Gal Pot1+ Gal PotTrays

In Stock$23.99

Nature Hills

In Stock$70.43

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-drained soil in early spring.
Water regularly until established, then reduce frequency.
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Ensure good air circulation to prevent disease.

Pro Tip

Plant in well-drained soil with full sun for best blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry periods 🌱
Prune after flowering to promote bushiness
Apply balanced fertilizer in spring
Mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

Overwater leading to root rot ❌
Heavy pruning in late fall ❌
Planting in poorly drained soil ❌
Ignoring pest signs ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Plant
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Bright border plantDrought-tolerant hedgeSunny rock garden accent

Companion Plants

Lavender Russian Sage Sedum Coreopsis Gaillardia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions