Golden Alpine Cinquefoil
Potentilla aurea (syn. Potentilla crantzii)
Golden Alpine Cinquefoil is a low-growing alpine perennial forming mats of golden-yellow flowers with distinctive orange spots at the base. This charming mountain plant symbolizes cheerfulness, maternal affection, and the golden beauty of alpine meadows.
Rosaceae (Rose family)
Late spring to summer (May-July)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: yellow alpine poppys and bidenss also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
The five-petaled cinquefoil has long been associated with maternal love and cheerfulness. Its golden flowers with orange spots brighten alpine meadows and symbolize the sunny disposition that perseveres in mountain environments. The genus name Potentilla means "powerful," reflecting the plant's medicinal history and its ability to thrive in challenging alpine conditions.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade
Water
Moderate; prefers fresh, moist soil especially in spring
Soil
Well-drained, Fresh, Rocky meadows, Average
Expert Growing Tips
Forms dense, flat mats up to 25 cm wide
Easy to grow and virtually maintenance-free
Grows naturally at elevations from 1,300 to 3,200 meters
Stems root at nodes, spreading naturally
Propagate by division in spring or autumn, by cuttings, or by seed
Hardy to -26°C (-15°F)
Add compost once every two years for best growth
Attracts pollinators including bees and butterflies
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Rock gardens and alpine gardens
- Ground cover for small areas
- Front of borders and edging
- Gravel and steppe plantings
- Containers
- Meadow gardens
Traditional Uses
- Old medicinal plant used in folk medicine
- Traditionally used as tea against diarrheal diseases
- Used as rinse for inflammation in mouth and throat
- Applied externally for poorly healing wounds
- Modern medicinal uses not well documented
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Golden Alpine Cinquefoil
what does cinquefoil symbolize?
Cinquefoil symbolizes maternal affection, cheerfulness, and beloved daughter — the five petals represent warmth and the sunny disposition of family love.
how do you grow alpine cinquefoil?
Alpine cinquefoil is easy to grow in well-drained soil with full sun — it forms spreading mats, is virtually maintenance-free, and hardy to -26°C.
where does golden cinquefoil grow naturally?
Golden cinquefoil grows naturally in alpine meadows and pastures at elevations from 1,300 to 3,200 meters — it's found throughout European mountain ranges.
is cinquefoil a good ground cover?
Yes, alpine cinquefoil is an excellent ground cover — it forms dense mats of foliage with bright golden flowers and spreads naturally by rooting stems.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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Explore More Beautiful Flowers
Discover other flowers with similar meanings, characteristics, or cultural significance.
Yellow Alpine Poppy
Papaver alpinum (and Papaver radicatum)
Yellow Alpine Poppy is a charming dwarf poppy with delicate cup-shaped yellow flowers that grace high mountain meadows and Arctic tundra. It symbolizes resilience, alpine beauty, and joy in harsh environments.
Bidens
Bidens ferulifolia
Bidens is a cheerful annual with daisy-like flowers that bloom continuously from summer to frost. Known for its resilience and abundant blooms, it symbolizes perseverance, joy, and sunny disposition.
Hibbertia
Hibbertia spp.
Hibbertia produces bright yellow, rose-like flowers with papery petals and prominent stamens, native to Australia and prized for their cheerful, long-lasting blooms.