Tormentil
Potentilla erecta
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Description
Tormentil (Potentilla erecta) is a small, herbaceous perennial plant native to Europe and western Asia, thriving in acidic, peaty soils often found in heathlands, moorlands, and grasslands. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, Tormentil is valued for its role in soil stabilization and biodiversity enhancement. Its dense root system prevents soil erosion, making it ideal for maintaining soil structure in degraded landscapes. Historically, it has been used in traditional medicine for its astringent properties and as a natural dye. In a food forest, Tormentil can serve as a ground cover layer, supporting soil health and providing habitat for beneficial insects. It pairs well with other acid-loving plants like blueberries and heathers, contributing to a resilient plant guild.
Growing Details
Tormentil thrives in acidic, well-drained soils with a preference for full sun to partial shade. Prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter such as leaf mold or well-rotted compost to improve drainage and nutrient content. Mulching with pine needles or bark can help maintain soil acidity and moisture. Companion plants include blueberries and heathers, which share similar soil preferences. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Harvest roots in autumn when tannin levels are highest, and dr
Tags
Attracts Wildlife
Erosion Preventing
Bee Friendly
Meadow
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Colouring
Tea
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Potentilla erecta</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to Europe and western Asia
applicable geo region: Europe; Western Asia
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of May for 90 days
Harvest:
beginning
of August for 30 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of March
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(1/5)
edible uses: The roots of Tormentil can be used to produce a red dye and have been used historically in herbal teas. However, they are not commonly consumed as food.
Medicinal Rating:
(4/5)
medicinal uses: Tormentil is renowned for its astringent properties, primarily due to the tannins in its roots. It is traditionally used to treat gastrointestinal disorders, diarrhea, and inflammation. The roots can be dried and used in decoctions or tinctures. Caution is advised as excessive use may lead to constipation due to its astringent nature.
health concerns: Excessive use of Tormentil can lead to constipation due to its high tannin content.
other uses: The roots are used to produce a red dye, historically significant in textile coloring.
Scientific Literature
Loading scientific articles about <strong>Potentilla erecta</strong>...
Botanical data
specie: Potentilla erecta
common names: Tormentil; Septfoil; Bloodroot
family: Rosaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Potentilla
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.1 m
spacing: 0.3 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 15ยฐC / 10ยฐC / 20ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 15ยฐC / 5ยฐC / 25ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity: Medium
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: Low
hardness:
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(5/10)
first harvest: 365 years
life span: 5 years
succession: Pioneer
growth rate: Medium
max height: 0.3 m
max width: 0.3 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Acid
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Tormentil thrives in acidic, well-drained soils with a preference for full sun to partial shade. Prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter such as leaf mold or well-rotted compost to improve drainage and nutrient content. Mulching with pine needles or bark can help maintain soil acidity and moisture. Companion plants include blueberries and heathers, which share similar soil preferences. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Harvest roots in autumn when tannin levels are highest, and dr
Potential Disturbances: Tormentil is generally pest-free but can be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils. To manage this, ensure proper drainage and consider planting with marigolds to deter nematodes. Beneficial insects like ladybugs can help control any aphid populations that may appear.
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