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Tormentil

Tormentil ©Chris Lawrence

Tormentil

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Scientific name: Potentilla erecta
Tormentil can be found growing on acid grassland, heathland and moorland, but even pops up alongside roads. It bears yellow, buttercup-like flowers, but with only four petals (buttercups have five).

Top facts

Stats

Height: up to 30cm

Conservation status

Common.

When to see

May to September

About

Tormentil is a common, low-growing and creeping perennial of acid grassland, heathland and moorland, but can also be found on roadside verges. Its four-petalled, yellow flowers appear May to September and provide nectar for solitary bees.

What to look for

A low-growing, downy plant, Tormentil has yellow flowers with four petals, and glossy, deeply toothed leaves with three lobes and silvery undersides.

Where to find

Widespread.

Did you know?

Tormentil was traditionally used to treat colic, gum disorders, wounds and inflammation. It was also used as a toothpaste and even to make a type of schnapps!