Cinquefoil 'Melton Fire' - Hardy Perennials Hot this Year!
Cinquefoil (Potentilla nepalensis ‘Melton Fire’) is a striking perennial that delivers waves of deep red blooms accented with golden centers from early to mid-summer. Its five-petaled flowers and tidy mounded habit make it an eye-catching addition to sunny borders, rock gardens, and pollinator plantings. Unlike its shrub-form relatives, this herbaceous cinquefoil stays compact and neat, thriving in full sun with minimal care. It’s hardy, drought-tolerant once established, and a reliable performer year after year—perfect for gardeners seeking vivid color and dependable texture through the summer season.
Applications in the Garden
Adds bold color to borders, cottage gardens, and mixed perennial beds
Excellent in pollinator gardens—bees and butterflies love its nectar-rich blooms
Works beautifully in rock gardens or along pathways
Provides contrast when paired with blue sage, coreopsis, or shasta daisies
Compact size makes it suitable for container growing
Ideal low-maintenance perennial for hot, sunny spots
Planting Tips - Cinquefoil
Choose a full-sun site with well-drained soil; cinquefoil thrives in light, sandy soil
Space plants 12–15 inches apart to allow air circulation
Water regularly during establishment, then only as needed—it is drought-tolerant once rooted
Avoid heavy fertilization; lean soil encourages sturdier growth and more blooms
Deadhead faded flowers to extend the blooming season
Cut back spent foliage in late fall or early spring to promote fresh growth
Plant Biography and Growing Environment
| Botanical Name: | Potentilla Nepalensis |
| Variety Name: | Nepalensis Melton Fire |
| Height: | 10″ |
| Hardiness Zone: | 2-7 |
| Sun or Shade: | Flowers best with at least 6 hours full sun. Some afternoon shade helps keep them blooming longer in warmer climates. |
| Plant Classification: | Perennial |
| Planting Season: | Spring or Fall |
| Bloom Season: | Spring – Summer |
| Bloom Cycle: | Continuous |
| Bloom Duration: | 3-4 months |
| Planting Depth: | 2″-3″ |
| Soil Requirements: | Moist, well-draining soil; neutral to mildly acidic, or mildly basic to basic. |
| Water Requirements: | Average |
Troubleshooting - Cinquefoil
Sparse blooms: Usually due to excessive shade or nitrogen; relocate to full sun and reduce feeding
Floppy stems: Caused by overfertilization or rich soil; cut back lightly and allow drier conditions
Leaf spotting: Improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering to minimize fungal issues
Root rot: Ensure soil drains freely, especially in humid climates
FAQ
Q: Is cinquefoil deer-resistant?
A: Yes, cinquefoil’s slightly bitter foliage makes it unappealing to deer and rabbits.
Q: Does this plant attract pollinators?
A: Absolutely—it’s a favorite among bees and butterflies throughout its bloom period.
Q: How tall does cinquefoil ‘Melton Fire’ grow?
A: Typically 12–18 inches tall and wide, making it an excellent front-border perennial.
Q: Is cinquefoil invasive?
A: No, cinquefoil is well-behaved in garden settings and does not spread aggressively.