Potentilla fruticosa 'Abbotswood'

Flowers are nectar- and pollen-rich, attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.

Provides some cover for small birds and insects in shrub borders.

Spring: fresh foliage emerges.

Summer to early fall: heavy, continuous flowering.

Fall: foliage may take on slight yellow tones before dropping.

Winter: twiggy structure provides minimal interest.

– Foundation plantings, borders, low hedges, mass plantings, rock gardens, commercial landscapes, pollinator-friendly gardens

Small, pinnate leaves with 5–7 narrow leaflets, medium green, fine-textured.

Semi-evergreen in milder climates, but usually deciduous.

Pure white, five-petaled flowers, 1–1.5" across.

Long bloom period from late spring through early fall (May–September).

Flowers are abundant, creating a blanket of white against green foliage.

Plant in spring or early fall when soil is workable.

Choose a site with well-drained soil; tolerates sandy, loamy, or even poor soils.

Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball, same depth as the root collar.

Backfill with native soil; amending is optional unless soil is extremely poor.

Water thoroughly after planting and mulch with 2–3" to conserve moisture.

Space about 2–4 ft apart for mass plantings or hedges, depending on mature spread.

Light pruning in late winter or early spring to remove dead wood and maintain shape.

After peak flowering, a light shear encourages rebloom.

Can be rejuvenated by cutting back by one-third every 3–4 years to keep compact.

Moderate; water regularly during establishment (first season).

Once established, drought tolerant, though it flowers best with occasional deep watering in prolonged dry spells.

Full sun is best for abundant blooms.

Will tolerate light partial shade, but flowering decreases in lower light.

Not grown for harvest; primarily ornamental.

Flowers are not typically cut for arrangements due to their small size and short vase life.

Low feeding needs; thrives in lean soils.

In spring, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer if growth is poor.

Avoid heavy nitrogen feeding, which can reduce flowering.

Insect-pollinated; flowers attract bees, hoverflies, and other pollinators.

Produces small, dry fruits but ornamental value is mainly in its flowers.

Combine with other low-maintenance shrubs like Spiraea japonica, Berberis, or dwarf Potentilla cultivars for mixed hedges.

Pairs well with ornamental grasses such as Festuca glauca or Panicum virgatum for textural contrast.

Excellent with perennials like Coreopsis, Salvia, and Nepeta to extend seasonal color.

Works nicely with evergreen accents such as dwarf junipers or boxwoods for structure.