The Colorful Long-Blooming Shrub That Has No Problem Growing In Clay Soil

There are many blooming plants that don't grow well in clay soil, which can limit the growing options for some gardeners. That doesn't mean that there are no alternatives, though. In fact, there are several beautiful plants that thrive in clay soil. And, there are even some with long blooming seasons that can add color to your yard or garden for months, like the shrubby potentilla (Dasiphora fruticosa).

The potentilla plant is known by several names, including bush cinquefoil or shrubby cinquefoil. It is a perennial shrub growing in USDA Hardiness Zones 2 to 7 that can be between 1 and 3 feet high when it reaches maturity. It produces small, yellow, saucer-shaped flowers that attract pollinators, like bees, all through summer and fall. For more color options, you can explore many cultivated species that feature white, orange, or pink flowers. Any variety can add long-term color and interest to your yard.

Shrubby potentilla is a member of the rose family that is particularly resistant to drought, and it prefers clay, loamy, or sandy soil with good drainage. Depending on your where you place your shrubs, they can work as an accent or border plant, for foundation or mass planting, or as a hedge. Wherever you decide to place them, make sure they get plenty of sun. They produce the most blooms in full sun, but they can also tolerate partial shade. Depending on local conditions, you may consider mulching around the shrubs.

In the first year, you will want to provide regular water to your shrubby potentillas, but once they are established, they don't need much maintenance. They are also resistant to most pests and diseases, as well as deer, rabbits, and air pollution. Once per year, you can prune old branches in the early spring before new blooms start to bud.

There are a few issues that you may run into when caring for shrubby potentilla. On occasion, they can be susceptible to mildew and fungus, especially in humid climates. Mildew won't impact the plant's flowering, but if you want to avoid it, you can prune regularly and add mulch.