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Silverweed

©Dave Riseborough

Silverweed

Scientific name

Potentilla anserina
As its name suggests, Silverweed has silvery leaves with toothed edges. It can be found in grassy places, along roadsides and on waste ground - look for yellow, saucer-shaped flowers and red runners.

Species information

Statistics

Height: up to 15cm

Conservation status

Common.

When to see

January to December

About

Silverweed is a creeping, trailing plant that can be found on rough grassland, roadside verges, sand dunes and waste ground. Its yellow flowers appear between June and August among the creeping mats of its silvery, downy leaves which remain all year-round.

How to identify

A low-growing plant, Silverweed has silvery leaves divided into twelve pairs of leaflets with toothed edges. Thin, red creepers form new stems and its saucer-shaped flowers have five yellow petals.

Distribution

Widespread.

Habitats

Did you know?

Silverweed is a member of the rose family and its flowers provide a nectar source for bees, especially the Honeybee.

How people can help

Although they might not look especially wildlife-friendly, our roadside verges, railway cuttings and waste grounds can provide valuable habitats for all kinds of plants and animals. The Wildlife Trusts are involved in many projects to make these places as beneficial for wildlife as possible. We have a vision of a Living Landscape: a network of habitats stretching across town and country that allow wildlife to move about freely and people to enjoy the benefits of nature. Support this greener vision for the future by joining your local Wildlife Trust.