Common Cinquefoil
Potentilla simplex
Last reviewed: June 2026
Potentilla simplex is a native perennial forb found across eastern and central North America that produces small yellow flowers from May through July and supports native bees and beetles.
Common Cinquefoil (Potentilla simplex) 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
medium
Size
6"–18" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 30 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Common cinquefoil is a low-growing native wildflower with five-petaled bright yellow flowers and distinctive five-leaflet leaves. It spreads by runners to form a groundcover mat, blooming reliably through late spring and summer. This hardy perennial tolerates various conditions and provides long-lasting color in partially sunny areas.
Growing Common Cinquefoil
Grow Common Cinquefoil in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 6 to 18 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
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 aggressively and can look weedy
- May be mistaken for common weeds
- Goes dormant in winter leaving bare patches
Wildlife value
The cheerful yellow flowers attract native bees and beneficial beetles throughout the growing season. Its low spreading habit also provides shelter for small beneficial insects.
Common questions
- When does Common Cinquefoil bloom?
- Potentilla simplex typically blooms from May through July, producing small yellow five-petaled flowers.
- What pollinators visit Common Cinquefoil?
- This native plant attracts bees and beetles, providing nectar and pollen resources during its summer blooming period.
- Where is Potentilla simplex native?
- Common Cinquefoil is native to most eastern and central states from Maine to Georgia and west to Minnesota, Kansas, and Texas.
- What growing conditions does Common Cinquefoil prefer?
- This adaptable forb tolerates a wide range of light conditions from full sun to partial shade and various moisture levels from dry to moist soils.
- 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).
- 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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