Old-field Cinquefoil

Common Cinquefoil
Potentilla simplex

A low-growing native perennial known for its bright yellow five-petaled flowers and spreading mats of attractive foliage. Blooming from late spring into early summer, the cheerful blossoms rise slightly above the leaves and provide a subtle but beautiful display across woodland edges, meadows, and open landscapes. The leaves are divided into five leaflets, giving the plant its name “cinquefoil,” meaning five leaves.

Common Cinquefoil spreads by creeping stems that root along the ground, forming a natural groundcover that helps stabilize soil and fill open spaces. Its adaptability and resilience make it a valuable species in naturalized landscapes and ecological restoration projects.

Growing Conditions

• Height: 4–10 in
• Spread: Spreading by creeping stems
• Light: Full sun to part shade
• Soil: Dry to medium moisture; tolerates sandy, loamy, and clay soils
• Hardiness: Zone 3–8
• Growth Rate: Moderate
• Drought tolerant once established
• Deer resistant

Ideal for meadows, woodland edges, slopes, open woodlands, and naturalized groundcover plantings where low-growing native species are desired.

Ecological Value

• Provides nectar and pollen for small native bees and pollinators
• Supports biodiversity in meadow and woodland edge ecosystems
• Forms natural groundcover that helps reduce erosion
• Adds seasonal interest and early nectar resources

Larval Host Plant For
Several native moth species whose caterpillars feed on plants in the rose family (Rosaceae).

Companion Species

• Wild Strawberry (Fragaria virginiana)
• Prairie Smoke (Geum triflorum)
• Golden Alexanders (Zizia aurea)
• Pennsylvania Sedge (Carex pensylvanica)
• Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium)
• Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)
• Butterfly Milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa)

Planting to Protect
Restoring to Thrive
Origin Native Plants

3.5 inch Pots