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Drummond's Cinquefoil

Potentilla drummondii

Last reviewed: June 2026

Drummond's Cinquefoil (Potentilla drummondii)
Photo: Unknown authorUnknown author / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Drummond's Cinquefoil (Potentilla drummondii) 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

full sun

Water

low

Size

4"–12" H × 6"–16" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul, Aug

Native to

CA, MT, NV, OR and 1 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Drummond's cinquefoil is a low-growing native perennial that forms compact mounds of small, divided leaves. It produces bright yellow, five-petaled flowers from late spring through summer, creating cheerful color in dry landscapes.

In an HOA neighborhood

Drummond's 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.

  • Very small stature may appear weedy
  • Unknown dormancy appearance creates uncertainty
  • Low profile doesn't provide typical landscaping presence

Wildlife value

This plant attracts native bees and beetles during its extended blooming period from May through August. The flowers provide nectar and pollen for various small pollinators throughout the growing season.

Common questions

How much sun does Drummond's Cinquefoil need?
Drummond's Cinquefoil grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Drummond's Cinquefoil bloom?
Drummond's Cinquefoil blooms in May, June, July, and August.
Where is Drummond's Cinquefoil native?
Drummond's Cinquefoil (Potentilla drummondii) is native to CA, MT, NV, OR and 1 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
Is Drummond's Cinquefoil toxic to dogs?
Drummond's Cinquefoil is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
Is Drummond's Cinquefoil toxic to cats?
Drummond's Cinquefoil is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
What pollinators does Drummond's Cinquefoil attract?
Drummond's Cinquefoil draws bees and beetles.
Is Drummond's Cinquefoil HOA-friendly?
Drummond's 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 Drummond's Cinquefoil? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz