Potentilla atrosanguinea

Dark Crimson Cinquefoil, known as Potentilla atrosanguinea in Latin, is a beautiful variety of perennial cinquefoil with velvety scarlet-red flowers. It forms a dense bushy clump, covered from summer to autumn with an abundance of single cup-shaped flowers with black hearts. Its dark green and silky foliage is also appealing, resembling that of strawberries. This hardy cinquefoil is an easy-to-grow plant that will bring lots of cheer and brightness to perennial and annual flower beds in a relaxed garden. It prefers a light, well-drained soil and a sunny position.

Potentilla atrosanguinea is one of the largest species of perennial cinquefoils. This herbaceous plant belongs to the rose family and is native to the Himalayas. It forms a bushy clump 60 cm (24 in) tall when in flower, with a diameter of about 60 cm (24 in). It is covered in a profusion of simple cup-shaped flowers from June to August, with an intense scarlet-red colour and black hearts. Flowering can continue into autumn if the plant is pruned. These flowers measure 2 to 3 cm (1 in) in diameter and are arranged in paniculate clusters on upright, branching stems. Their foliage resembles that of strawberries: the trilobed leaves are 5 to 8 cm (2 to 3 in) long, with ovate to elliptical leaflets and toothed edges. The dark green colour is covered with a dense blanket of silky grey hairs.

Potentilla atrosanguinea is an ideal plant for borders or to enhance the terrace area. It is one of those easy-to-grow plants with a quaint charm that fits well into a cottage garden. Like hollyhocks, perennial flax, toadflax, gas plant, and wild chicory, it thrives in well-drained soil and sunlight. Dark crimson cinquefoil can also be used to create beautiful potted displays.