Ternate-leaf Cinquefoil
Potentilla norvegica
Last reviewed: June 2026
Ternate-leaf Cinquefoil (Potentilla norvegica) 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 shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AR, AZ, CA, CO and 39 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Ternate-leaf cinquefoil is a native perennial wildflower with small yellow blooms and distinctive three-leaflet foliage. It grows as a compact clump reaching up to 2 feet tall and blooms throughout the summer months. This hardy plant thrives in partial shade with moderate moisture conditions.
In an HOA neighborhood
Ternate-leaf 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.
- Has weedy appearance that may not meet manicured landscape standards
- Can spread and look unkempt in formal settings
- May be mistaken for an unwanted weed by neighbors
Wildlife value
The small yellow flowers attract native bees and beneficial beetles during its long summer blooming period. Its seeds also provide food for small birds and wildlife.
Common questions
- How much sun does Ternate-leaf Cinquefoil need?
- Ternate-leaf Cinquefoil grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Ternate-leaf Cinquefoil bloom?
- Ternate-leaf Cinquefoil blooms in June, July, and August.
- Where is Ternate-leaf Cinquefoil native?
- Ternate-leaf Cinquefoil (Potentilla norvegica) is native to AR, AZ, CA, CO and 39 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Ternate-leaf Cinquefoil toxic to dogs?
- Ternate-leaf Cinquefoil is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Ternate-leaf Cinquefoil toxic to cats?
- Ternate-leaf Cinquefoil is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- What pollinators does Ternate-leaf Cinquefoil attract?
- Ternate-leaf Cinquefoil draws bees and beetles.
- Is Ternate-leaf Cinquefoil HOA-friendly?
- Ternate-leaf 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 Ternate-leaf 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