Happy Face White Potentilla

Happy Face® White Potentilla Care Guide

Botanical Name: Potentilla fruticosa ‘White Lady’ (also marketed under the Happy Face® White series) 

Key Characteristics

• Hardiness Zones: Zones 2 through 7 — very cold-hardy. 

• Mature Size: Typically 2 to 3 ft tall with a similar spread (~24” to 36”). 

• Flowering:
    • Extra-large, pure white blossoms from late spring through late summer (sometimes nearly until frost). 
    • Tends to “smother” the foliage with blooms when in full flower. 

• Foliage: Dark green, fine-textured leaves (compound / pinnate). 

• Habit: Mounded, dense growth. 

Growing Conditions

1. Sunlight: Full sun or part sun. For best flowering, aim for 6+ hours of direct sunlight. 

2. Soil: Prefers well-drained soil. It tolerates many soil types (even poorer soils), but does poorly in consistently wet or waterlogged conditions. 

3. Moisture:
     • During establishment, keep soil evenly moist (not soggy).
     • Once established, fairly drought-tolerant; supplemental watering during prolonged dry periods helps maintain vigor and flowering. 

4. Spacing: Space plants about 36 to 48 in (3 to 4 ft) apart to allow good air flow and room to grow. 

5. Salt / Stress Tolerance: Known to tolerate salt and adverse conditions (once established). 

Pruning & Maintenance

• Pruning Time: Late winter to early spring before new growth begins. Because it blooms on new wood, pruning then won’t reduce blooms. 

• How to Prune:
    • Remove dead, diseased, or weak wood.
    • Periodically, remove up to ⅓ of the oldest stems to rejuvenate the shrub. 
    • If desired, a light trim for shape is acceptable, but avoid cutting back hard into old wood.

• Renewal: Every few years, cutting some of the old wood out encourages fresh growth and sustained vigor. 

Pests & Diseases

• Generally considered low-maintenance and fairly disease-resistant. 

• Because of its hardiness and native lineage, it’s often virtually pest-free and deer-resistant. 

• In poorly drained soils or overly humid conditions, risk of root or crown rot increases. Good drainage is essential.

Landscape Uses & Tips

• Excellent in mass plantings, borders, or mixed shrub beds thanks to its compact form and white flower color which pairs well with many other hues. 

• Works as a groundcover or low hedge because of its compact habit.

• Because it blooms right through summer, it can provide continuous flower interest in the landscape.

• Great for tough sites—slopes, rock gardens, or less-than-ideal soil—so long as drainage is adequate.