How much sun does Common Cinquefoil need?

Common Cinquefoil grows best in part sun conditions.

When does Common Cinquefoil bloom?

Common Cinquefoil blooms in May, June, and July.

Where is Common Cinquefoil native?

Common Cinquefoil (Potentilla canadensis) is native to AL, CT, DE, KY and 16 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.

What pollinators does Common Cinquefoil attract?

Common Cinquefoil draws bees and beetles.

Is Common Cinquefoil HOA-friendly?

Common Cinquefoil takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Common Cinquefoil

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Potentilla canadensis

Last reviewed: July 2026

Common Cinquefoil (Potentilla canadensis) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

Light

part sun

Water

low

Size

4"–12" H × 6"–18" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul

Native to

AL, CT, DE, KY and 16 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Common cinquefoil is a low-growing native groundcover with distinctive five-leaflet leaves and bright yellow flowers. It spreads naturally to form patches and thrives in partial sun with minimal watering once established. The plant blooms from May through July, providing consistent color during the growing season.

In an HOA neighborhood

Common Cinquefoil takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

Spreads naturally and can appear weedy
Very informal growth habit
May be mistaken for unwanted weeds by neighbors

Wildlife value

This plant supports native bees and beetles with its abundant yellow flowers throughout late spring and summer. Its low growth habit also provides shelter for small beneficial insects.

Common questions

How much sun does Common Cinquefoil need?: Common Cinquefoil grows best in part sun conditions.
When does Common Cinquefoil bloom?: Common Cinquefoil blooms in May, June, and July.
Where is Common Cinquefoil native?: Common Cinquefoil (Potentilla canadensis) is native to AL, CT, DE, KY and 16 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
Is Common Cinquefoil toxic to dogs?: Common Cinquefoil is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
Is Common Cinquefoil toxic to cats?: Common Cinquefoil is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
What pollinators does Common Cinquefoil attract?: Common Cinquefoil draws bees and beetles.
Is Common Cinquefoil HOA-friendly?: Common Cinquefoil takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Common Cinquefoil? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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