Shrubby Cinquefoil 'Daydawn'

Shrubby cinquefoil 'Daydawn' (Potentilla fruticosa 'Daydawn') is a bush the colour of sunrise, exactly as its name promises. Its saucer-shaped flowers of warm cream-yellow are lit by a soft pink-peach blush that plain yellow cinquefoils never have, while the small pinnate leaves keep the bush light and lacy.

It flowers without a break from early summer to early autumn - longer than most shrubs of its size: in five to ten years it reaches only 0.5-1 m in height and as much across. Plant it in sunny borders, rock and gravel gardens or a container on the terrace, and note that in slightly moister soil the delicate pink tone lasts longer.

Key characteristics:

• What makes it special: Rabbits and deer leave the bush alone, while pollinators flock to it: the RHS lists the cultivar as perfect for pollinators.
• Dimensions: At 10 years 0.5-1 m tall and the same across.
• Hardiness: Takes down to -40 °C (USDA zone 3).
• Flowering: From June to September saucer-shaped pale yellow flowers with a pale pink tint open one after another.
• Light: Sun or partial shade; the flower colour lasts longer in partial shade, as it fades faster in open sun.
• Soil: It takes any garden soil easily - chalky, loamy or sandy, as long as it is well drained.
• Watering: Water moderately and evenly; in moister soil the flowers hold on longer.
• Care: Prune in late winter or early spring: shorten last year's growth and cut out the oldest branches.
• Landscape use: Flower borders, rockeries, gravel, coastal and cottage gardens, and containers on the patio.