Dwarf Cinquefoil (Potentilla canadensis) vs. European Cinquefoil (Potentilla reptans)
Updated May 1st, 2025These two species, one native and one introduced, are visually-similar and easily confused; both can grow in lawns, but they have little overlap in preferred soil conditions. They can be distinguished by leaves and flowers as well as several other subtle differences. The native P. canadensis has a more extensive range, and prefers dry, acidic soils, whereas P. reptans has only been introduced at scattered sites, but it can occur farther west, and can be invasive where it occurs. It ranges into moister conditions and prefers near-neutral pH.
