Common Name:
Common Cinquefoil
Scientific Name:
Potentilla canadensis L.
Family:
Rose (Rosaceae)
Plant Description:
Common cinquefoil is a perennial, low trailing plant that often produces runners
several feet long. Stems are hairy and have five leaflets. Reproduction primarily
is by runners and seed. The plant produces one yellow flower per stem during
the months of May-August.
Remarks:
Cinquefoil is introduced into new plantings as seed contaminated sand and as
cuttings. As the summer progresses, the plant's runners may overtake existing
cranberry vines. The plant is also common in new and established beds along
bed edges and sandy voids. It prefers a well drained sandy soil.