A collection of three Potentilla

This collection of perennial potentillas offers long-lasting flowering while requiring little maintenance. Potentilla nepalensis 'Miss Willmot', P. atrosanguinea, and P. megalantha provide a range of flower colours, from pale pink to deep red and vibrant yellow. The height of the plants varies from 20 to 60 cm, with foliage that is typically deciduous and resembles that of strawberries. Flowering begins in June and extends until early October, depending on the plants. These perennials can withstand frost down to -15°C and adapt to various climates. They can be planted in borders, beds, or containers, and are also well-suited for rock gardens.

The collection consists of:

1 x Potentilla nepalensis 'Miss Willmot': this variety displays pink flowers with darker shades in the centre. It reaches a height of 45-50 cm and has deciduous, bright green foliage.

1 x Potentilla atrosanguinea: distinguished by its dark red flowers, this botanical species can reach a height of up to 60 cm. Its foliage is also deciduous, but a darker green.

1 x Potentilla megalantha: unlike the other two, this species offers flowers ranging from bright yellow to orange-yellow. It is the shortest in the collection, with a maximum height of 20 cm and wide deciduous, medium green leaves. The plant forms a spreading cushion.

These perennial potentillas are not demanding in terms of soil, but they thrive in well-drained, moderately moist soils. They can adapt to exposures ranging from full sun to partial shade. We recommend planting the lowest-growing Potentilla megalantha in a rock garden, at the front of a bed, or along a border. Potentilla nepalensis 'Miss Willmot' can be placed behind it, while the slightly taller Potentilla atrosanguinea can be positioned at the back. For a beautiful effect, plan for 5 plants per square metre and maintain a distance of about 40 cm between each plant.

To create a colourful and diverse scene, combine these perennial potentillas with Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' with its purple flower spikes and Geranium 'Rozanne' to complement the ensemble with blue. Nepeta 'Walker's Low' would also be an interesting addition with its lavender-blue flowers, as well as Achillea 'Moonshine' for its pale yellow flowers.