Woolly Cinquefoil
Potentilla hippiana
Last reviewed: June 2026
Woolly Cinquefoil (Potentilla hippiana) 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"–16" H × 6"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AZ, CO, ID, MI and 9 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Woolly cinquefoil is a low-growing native perennial with silvery, fuzzy leaves and small white flowers that bloom from May through July. This drought-tolerant groundcover spreads slowly to form attractive patches in sunny, dry locations. The plant's compact size and neat growth habit make it suitable for rock gardens and xeriscape designs.
In an HOA neighborhood
Woolly 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 flowers attract native bees and beetles during the late spring and summer blooming period. This native plant provides important nectar resources for pollinators during the early growing season.
Common questions
- How much sun does Woolly Cinquefoil need?
- Woolly Cinquefoil grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Woolly Cinquefoil bloom?
- Woolly Cinquefoil blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Woolly Cinquefoil native?
- Woolly Cinquefoil (Potentilla hippiana) is native to AZ, CO, ID, MI and 9 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Woolly Cinquefoil toxic to dogs?
- Woolly Cinquefoil is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Woolly Cinquefoil toxic to cats?
- Woolly Cinquefoil is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- What pollinators does Woolly Cinquefoil attract?
- Woolly Cinquefoil draws bees and beetles.
- Is Woolly Cinquefoil HOA-friendly?
- Woolly 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 Woolly 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