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Three-toothed Cinquefoil

Sibbaldia tridentata

Last reviewed: June 2026

Three-toothed Cinquefoil (Sibbaldia tridentata)
Photo: Christopher Hoess Choess / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Light

part sun

Water

low

Size

2"–6" H × 4"–8" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug

Native to

CT, GA, IA, IL and 16 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Three-toothed cinquefoil is a low-growing alpine perennial that forms neat, compact mats of small three-leaflet foliage. It produces delicate white flowers throughout summer and naturally stays very short, making it an excellent groundcover for difficult sites.

In an HOA neighborhood

Three-toothed Cinquefoil is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.

Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.

Wildlife value

The small white flowers attract native bees and beetles during its long summer blooming period. Its low, dense growth provides shelter for beneficial insects.

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.

Does Three-toothed Cinquefoil fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.