Seasonal Wild Flowers

Tormentil

Potentilla erecta

Rosaceae

May to September

It is found throughout the country.

See the BSBI distribution map for Tormentil

It grows on both acidic and limy soils (less often) in a wide

range of habitats, e.g., lowland and upland grassland,

meadows, moorland and heathland, bogs, open woods

and hedge banks.

Tormentil is a native, perennial, prostrate herb, with

spreading stems reaching up to 45cm.

Flowers are bright yellow, up to 1cm, with 4 notched petals

and numerous stamens with yellow stamens.

Leaves usually have 3 (sometimes more) toothed leaflets.

Tomentil is easy to recognise. Its bright yellow, 4-petalled

flowers standout, especially on moors and heaths.

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Tormentil, Clougha Pike, Lancashire

Flower, bud and leaves

Flower, yellow anthers

Leaves and prostrate stems