Creeping Cinquefoil
Potentilla reptans
Also listed as Dasiphora reptans, Dynamidium reptans
Also known as European Five-finger
Climate Match for your location
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A low-growing, spreading groundcover with five-parted leaves and small yellow flowers. Extremely hardy and drought-tolerant once established, thriving in poor soils where other plants struggle.
Why grow it
Creeping cinquefoil offers reliable groundcover performance in sites where standard turf or ornamental groundcovers fail, particularly in lean soils and low-water conditions after establishment. Compared to similar low-growing spreaders, it tolerates compacted and poor-quality soils with minimal amendment, making it practical for erosion control or filling difficult microclimates without intensive site prep.
Watch out for
In consistently moist or heavily mulched areas, this plant may struggle with fungal issues or root rot, so ensure adequate drainage. Its dense mat can take several seasons to fill in completely, requiring patience before full coverage is achieved.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Rosaceae
Native Range
Europe and temperate Asia
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Ground cover
Low spreading plants that carpet the soil.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A low-growing, spreading groundcover with five-parted leaves and small yellow flowers. Extremely hardy and drought-tolerant once established, thriving in poor soils where other plants struggle.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Creeping Cinquefoil grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Creeping cinquefoil offers reliable groundcover performance in sites where standard turf or ornamental groundcovers fail, particularly in lean soils and low-water conditions after establishment. Compared to similar low-growing spreaders, it tolerates compacted and poor-quality soils with minimal amendment, making it practical for erosion control or filling difficult microclimates without intensive site prep.
Watch out for
In consistently moist or heavily mulched areas, this plant may struggle with fungal issues or root rot, so ensure adequate drainage. Its dense mat can take several seasons to fill in completely, requiring patience before full coverage is achieved.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Rosaceae
Native Range
Europe and temperate Asia
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Ground cover
Low spreading plants that carpet the soil.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Similar ground covers you might consider:
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