Prairie Cinquefoil
Drymocallis arguta
Last reviewed: June 2026
Prairie Cinquefoil (Drymocallis arguta) is a native North American forb that blooms yellow flowers from June through August. This drought-tolerant wildflower thrives in full sun across prairies and grasslands from Montana to Maine.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–24" H × 12"–18" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AR, CO, IA, IL and 23 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Drymocallis arguta is a compact native perennial that produces clusters of small white or cream flowers from June through August. This drought-tolerant plant forms neat clumps with attractive compound leaves and thrives in sunny locations with minimal watering once established.
Growing Prairie Cinquefoil
Grow Prairie Cinquefoil in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 12 to 24 inches tall and spread 12 to 18 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Prairie Cinquefoil is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, mid zone.
- May appear sparse or weedy to neighbors unfamiliar with native plants
- Winter dormancy leaves bare spots
Wildlife value
The summer blooms attract native bees and beetles, providing nectar and pollen during the peak growing season.
Common questions
- When does Prairie Cinquefoil bloom?
- Prairie Cinquefoil produces its characteristic yellow flowers from June through August, making it a reliable mid-summer bloomer in native plant gardens.
- What pollinators visit Prairie Cinquefoil?
- Prairie Cinquefoil attracts bees and beetles, which visit the flowers for nectar and pollen. The open flower structure makes resources easily accessible to these beneficial insects.
- Where is Prairie Cinquefoil native?
- Prairie Cinquefoil is native across much of North America, from western states like Montana, Wyoming, and Colorado to eastern states including Maine, Vermont, and Virginia, with extensive presence throughout the Great Plains and Midwest.
- What growing conditions does Prairie Cinquefoil prefer?
- This hardy forb thrives in full sun with low water requirements, making it well-suited to prairie restorations, xeriscaping, and natural areas with well-draining soils.
- Is Prairie Cinquefoil HOA-friendly?
- Prairie Cinquefoil is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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 Prairie 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