Shrubby Potentilla

 

Shrubby Potentilla (aka Shrubby cinquefoil)  is a deciduous shrub which can grow up to 4ft high. It is very hardy and widely used in landscape plantings. Popular for its floral display throughout most of the summer season.

 

The flowers are small, single, and rose-like and appear continuously from late spring to early fall on finely textured , dark green foliage.  Though most commonly yellow in color in Colorado, they can be white, yellow, pink, peach, orange, and red. Note the 5 petaled flowers in the pictures.

The leaves are are an astringent meaning it is used  to contract of body tissues, typically of the skin. The juice of the root is used in the treatment of indigestion,  can be dried and made into tea.

Medicinally, the Potentilla species have been used for cramps, mouth ulcers, spongy gums, loose teeth, respiratory ailments, and as a cardiac stimulant.

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The dry, flaky bark can be used as a tinder to help start fires.